In a market long dominated by imported labels, Innocent Onwunali is quietly rewriting the story of Nigeria’s beverage industry. The serial entrepreneur, co-founder of IKI Leads, is proving that locally crafted spirits can rival — and even surpass — international brands in quality, appeal, and cultural relevance.
What began as a modest idea between two brothers, Innocent and Ikechukwu Onwunali, has evolved into a thriving enterprise that celebrates Nigerian craftsmanship while challenging global conventions. Their early success with Pasa Bitters signaled the arrival of a new force in the indigenous liquor space — a drink that resonated with both tradition and modern sophistication.
But Innocent didn’t stop there. He followed with the launch of PoloClub Vodka, a bold move that elevated his brand portfolio from local recognition to nationwide acclaim. Now, with his latest creation, Doncoco, he is charting an even more ambitious course — crafting a premium spirit that captures the rhythm, warmth, and essence of Nigeria itself.
The Rise of a Cultural Tastemaker
For Innocent, each product is more than a beverage; it’s a story bottled with intention. “Every flavor we create speaks to the Nigerian spirit — resilient, vibrant, and full of character,” he has often said.
This philosophy is evident in his growing collection, which now includes Aromatic Schnapps, Cream Liqueurs, and other specialty blends inspired by indigenous recipes. His attention to detail — from sourcing locally grown ingredients to maintaining rigorous quality standards — has earned him respect among distributors and consumers alike.
Through IKI Leads, the entrepreneur is not only building a profitable business but also championing Made-in-Nigeria excellence at a time when global supply chain disruptions and foreign exchange fluctuations are reshaping consumer preferences.
Tapping Into a $7 Billion Market
Nigeria’s alcoholic beverage industry, currently valued at over $7 billion, is experiencing a shift. Rising import costs and an increasing desire for authenticity are driving more Nigerians toward homegrown brands. Innocent recognized this early — and positioned himself strategically to lead the movement.
By expanding production facilities in Ogun State, he is scaling operations to meet this growing demand while fostering economic empowerment. The expansion will generate hundreds of direct jobs and support countless others through a vast distribution network, making his enterprise a quiet engine of local development.
A Vision Rooted in Culture and Craft
What sets Innocent apart is his long-term vision: to build a Nigerian beverage house that competes globally without losing its roots. Each label in his collection embodies a blend of innovation and cultural pride — an identity that appeals to both the modern drinker and the traditional enthusiast.
As Doncoco prepares to make its national debut, industry watchers see it as more than a product launch — it’s a statement of intent. A declaration that Nigeria’s indigenous beverage industry is no longer playing catch-up, but leading with creativity, craftsmanship, and confidence.
“We’re not just distilling drinks; we’re distilling identity,” Innocent often says.
“Our goal is to make every Nigerian proud to raise a glass to something truly their own.”
