The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has revealed that maintenance lapses are responsible for 10 to 15 per cent of energy wastage in factories, with most facilities lacking sub-metering systems to monitor consumption.
The findings were presented at the National Stakeholders’ Sensitisation Workshop on ISO 50001 and 14001 standards in Lagos, based on a Cleaner Production Assessment of 42 industries across four geopolitical zones. Sectors covered include food and beverages, textiles, petrochemicals, basic metals, and wood products.
Obafemi Adejumo, presenting the study, highlighted energy efficiency gaps in the Nigerian industrial sector. Compressed air systems accounted for 25% of energy losses due to leaks and misuse, while steam systems and lighting contributed 30% and 18%, respectively. Other issues included poor insulation, inefficient motors, and lack of Variable Speed Drives.
The assessment noted that idle equipment, weak maintenance culture, and grid unreliability in regions such as Kano and Anambra further amplified energy losses. Conversely, some success was recorded, such as a Lagos-based food and beverage plant that reduced compressed air leaks by 20% after system optimisation.
The report estimated that implementing integrated industrial energy-efficiency measures could cut energy use by 20–25%, translating to roughly 500 megawatt-hours saved per plant annually. The association urged manufacturers to adopt ISO 50001 for energy efficiency and ISO 14001 for resource efficiency and cleaner production.
Jacob Oladipo, National Project Coordinator of the GEF-UNIDO IEE/RECP Project, stressed the importance of better water management and recycling practices to reduce waste, while Adejumo called for top management commitment to bridge efficiency gaps.
Duro Kuteyi, CEO of Spectra Industries, noted that the initiative exposed hidden financial losses and highlighted opportunities to recover and commercialise waste streams, including heat from generators.
Segun Ajayi-Kadir, MAN Director-General, emphasised that adopting sustainable practices will enhance competitiveness, reduce carbon footprints, and strengthen industrial resilience, urging policymakers to support energy management and cleaner production initiatives nationwide.
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