The need to build industrial capacity for energy efficiency, resource conservation, and environmental sustainability has become a top issue in the energy subsector.
This has thus attracted the attention and resources of industry players, energy experts, and sustainability advocates to build industrial capacity for energy efficiency.
Key drivers of the project include the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), and ECREEE.
These groups have mapped out the nation (Nigeria) for training and strategy meetings around the zones to mobilise and empower industry players to begin action to build industrial capacity for energy efficiency, resource conservation, and environmental sustainability.
They have already successfully hosted what the organisers called high-impact industrial energy efficiency and resource efficient cleaner production (RECP) training workshop in Lagos.
The strategy, according to officials, was to get the participants engaged in technical discussions, hands-on training, and strategic sessions to equip Nigerian industries with the tools and knowledge to optimize energy use, minimize waste, and adopt internationally recognized best practices such as ISO 50001 and ISO 14001.
Speaking at the opening session, Jacob Oladipo, the national project coordinator, emphasized the significance of the GEF-UNIDO IEE & RECP Project in addressing energy consumption challenges in Nigeria’s industrial sector.
He said: “This project is a game-changer. It provides industries with a structured approach to significantly reduce energy costs, improve operational efficiency, and minimize their environmental footprint. With energy costs on the rise, adopting energy-efficient and cleaner production strategies is no longer an option, it is a necessity for sustainable industrial growth.”
Read also: Government actions will lower overall energy costs – Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu
Experts focused on introduction to industrial energy efficiency methodology, the international standard for structured energy management; resource efficient cleaner production strategies, etc. all aimed at reducing cost and improving efficiency.
Participants actively engaged in case studies, group discussions, and facility-based energy audits, further deepening their understanding of how to integrate energy efficiency measures in real-world industrial settings.
In his closing remarks, Osidipe Segun, a key expert on the project, commended the enthusiasm of participants and reiterated the importance of continuous engagement and policy alignment to drive Nigeria’s industrial energy transformation.
He made it clear that the impact of the training would be felt far beyond the two days. “We expect industries to take ownership of these methodologies and apply them in ways that not only boost productivity but also support Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable development.”
As a next step, participating organizations were encouraged to implement energy-efficient practices, apply for pilot projects, and seek funding opportunities through the Bank of Industry (BOI) to support their sustainability initiatives.
With the success of the Lagos training, the GEF-UNIDO IEE & RECP Project is expected to continue its commitment to ensuring that Nigerian industries thrive in a sustainable, energy-efficient manner. The project team urged industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to champion cleaner production, adopt international best practices, and collaborate for a greener future.
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