The Global Environment Facility (GEF), the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), and the Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) project are collaborating to transform Nigeria’s industrial sector.
Mr Jacob Oladipo, National Project Coordinator of the GEF-UNIDO Industrial Energy Efficiency (IEE) and RECP Project, disclosed this at a project-specific interactive session with the organised private sector, non-governmental organisations, and other stakeholders on Monday in Abuja.
He said the project provides a platform to engage stakeholders on the importance of adopting industrial energy efficiency and resource-efficient and cleaner production methodologies in Nigeria’s industrial sector.
Oladipo noted that the strong turnout of stakeholders reflected a high level of cross-sector commitment to sustainable industrial development.
According to him, the project has recorded significant progress in promoting industrial energy efficiency and cleaner production practices.
He said the initiative has shown that improving resource efficiency and reducing energy consumption are not only environmentally responsible but also smart business strategies that enhance productivity and competitiveness.
This has been achieved through capacity building, technical support, cleaner production assessments, policy engagement, and innovative financing mechanisms.
“As we move forward, the transition to sustainable and resource-efficient industrial production will require continued partnership, knowledge sharing, and commitment from all stakeholders,” he said.
In a goodwill message, Mr Sola Obadimu, Director-General of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), described the intervention as timely and strategic.
Obadimu, who was represented by Mr Kunle Fadare, Senior Manager, Administration, said Nigeria’s industrial sector accounts for over 30 per cent of national energy consumption, yet operates below optimal efficiency levels.
“Studies indicate that energy efficiency improvements in Nigerian industries could deliver savings of between 20 and 40 per cent, translating into reduced costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
“At the same time, Nigeria generates over 32 million tonnes of solid waste annually, much of which is industrial and could be reduced through cleaner production techniques,” he said.
He added that the RECP approach provides a practical pathway for environmental sustainability, improved profitability, and long-term business resilience.
Obadimu said the initiative aligns with NACCIMA’s mandate to promote a competitive private sector.
“We will continue to advocate policies and practices that enhance productivity, reduce operational inefficiencies, and open new frontiers for sustainable growth,” he said.
Also speaking, Mr Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), welcomed the initiative.
Oyerinde, who was represented by Mr Femi Paul, Acting Senior Executive, Corporate Affairs, said the organisation’s commitment was both verbal and operational.
He noted that clean energy financing deployed through the Bank of Industry has yielded measurable results, including reduced production costs and improved operational efficiency.
He added that the high level of stakeholder participation at the event underscored strong commitment to advancing sustainable industrial development in Nigeria.
