Elochukwu Benjamin
Awka
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has launched the Industrial Energy Adoption Programme, an initiative designed to reduce energy costs for manufacturers, improve industrial competitiveness and accelerate Nigeria’s transition to sustainable, low-carbon manufacturing.
The programme was unveiled during the MAN South East Industrial Energy Solutions and Investment Symposium held in Awka, Anambra State, with the theme, “From High Energy Costs to Affordable Power: An Opportunity for Manufacturers.”
Speaking at the event, MAN President, Otunba Francis Meshioye, described affordable and reliable electricity as one of the most critical requirements for strengthening Nigeria’s industrial sector.
He commended the MAN Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi Branch for developing what he described as a practical framework to help manufacturers move away from expensive and unreliable energy sources to more sustainable power solutions.
Meshioye urged manufacturers to embrace the initiative while calling on government agencies, financial institutions and private-sector stakeholders to support its successful implementation.
Earlier, Chairman of the MAN Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi Branch, Lady Adaora Chukwudozie, said the programme was conceived in response to the growing burden of energy costs on manufacturers.
According to her, beyond recognising the challenge, the association has taken responsibility for providing practical solutions.
She noted that manufacturers are increasingly seeking answers to critical questions about the most suitable energy options, financing models, trusted implementation partners and the viability of proposed projects.
“Leadership demands more than identifying problems. It requires creating opportunities for solutions, building credible partnerships and providing practical pathways for progress,” she said.
Describing the symposium as more than a conference, Chukwudozie said it was intentionally designed to bring together all the key stakeholders needed to move manufacturers from planning to implementation.
“Today, MAN is not merely describing the other side of the river. Today, we are presenting the bridge,” she said.
Presenting the programme’s implementation framework, the Managing Director of MAN Power Development Company Limited (MPDCL), Mr. Owe Sam, explained that the company was established by MAN to coordinate practical and sustainable energy solutions for manufacturers nationwide.
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, praised MAN for championing a practical, solution-driven initiative.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for industrial investment, infrastructure development and sustainable economic growth.
Chairman and Chief Executive Commissioner of the Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ASERC), Prof. Nwoye Okafor, also pledged the commission’s support for responsible industrial energy development.
He assured manufacturers and investors of transparent, efficient and investor-friendly regulatory processes that would encourage innovation while safeguarding the integrity of the electricity market.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Chukwudi Agumadu, reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding access to reliable electricity for productive sectors of the economy.
He said industrial development, economic growth and job creation depend on a resilient energy ecosystem and pledged continued collaboration with MAN and other industry stakeholders.
One of the major highlights of the symposium was the presentation of Juddy-Bolema Industries Limited as one of the pioneer companies participating in the programme.
Its Managing Director, Mr. Jude Onyebu, showcased the company’s energy transition project as a demonstration of the programme’s integrated financing, technology and implementation model.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sabrud Consortium, Engr. Chiso Nwangwu, also encouraged businesses and households to adopt affordable electric metering and solar energy solutions to reduce the impact of rising electricity costs.
He said the company manufactures and assembles electricity meters while also providing mini-grid and solar solutions tailored to consumers seeking alternatives to high electricity bills.
The symposium attracted senior government officials, regulators, financiers, technology firms, engineering companies, development partners and manufacturers from across the South-East, who explored strategies for improving energy access and strengthening Nigeria’s industrial sector.
