The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has commended the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation for its efforts aimed at repositioning the manufacturing sector in Nigeria for sustained growth by adopting global best practices and methodologies.

Director, Research and Economic Policy Division, MAN, Dr. Oluwasegun Osidipe, gave the commendation at the ‘MAN National Stakeholders Sensitisation Workshop of the GEF-UNIDO Industrial Energy Efficiency (IEE) and Resource Efficient Cleaner Production (RECP) Project’ in Lagos last week.

In his welcome address, Osidipe noted that the IEE and RECP project marks a defining moment in our collective journey towards sustainability.

His words: “It represents an essential moment for us as leaders in the manufacturing sector, where we have the opportunity, and indeed the responsibility, to champion sustainable practices that not only drive growth but also preserve our planet for generations to come.”

Osidipe said that the challenges posed by energy inefficiency are multifaceted, encompassing not only economic considerations but also environmental impacts and social implications.

He, however, noted that the challenges offer opportunities to innovate, optimise, efficiently utilise resources and to lead the way towards a more sustainable future.

“As we embrace the principles of energy efficiency, we will not only be reducing our carbon footprint but also mitigating environmental degradation and saving on energy costs.

“In return, the efficiency, competitiveness and resilience of our operations will be enhanced to meet the increasing demands of our ever-evolving global marketplace,” he stated.

Osidipe challenged industrialists to safeguard the environment and foster sustained economic growth and development in Nigeria by adopting cleaner production methods, optimising resource utilisation, and investing in energy-efficient technologies.

“As we embark on this journey towards greater industrial energy efficiency, let us harness the collective knowledge, expertise, and creativity present in this room.

“Let us engage in robust dialogue, forge partnerships, and adopt the IEE and RECP methodologies in our respective industries. I am confident that, together, we can gain further traction in our quest to promote environmentally friendly manufacturing.”