Manufacturers in Nigeria’s electrical and electronics sector have been urged to leverage innovation to address the nation’s pressing energy challenges. Speaking at the third Annual General Meeting of the Electrical and Electronics Sectoral Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), George Onafowokan, Managing Director of Coleman Wires and Cables, highlighted the opportunities for transformation within the energy sector despite persistent obstacles. Represented by Ilori Sanusi, the Chief Operating Officer, Onafowokan identified critical challenges, including energy deficits, over-reliance on fossil fuels, and underutilized renewable resources like solar and wind energy, as areas where innovation can lead to progress.
Onafowokan emphasized the sector’s role in driving Nigeria’s energy transformation, stating that expertise and resources in the electrical and electronics industry position it as a leader in developing energy-efficient products, supporting renewable energy systems, and boosting industrial growth. He outlined a roadmap for addressing these challenges, including adopting advanced technologies, prioritizing sustainability, cultivating a skilled workforce, and fostering collaboration with policymakers to create a conducive environment for growth. The call to action included harnessing smart grids, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and other cutting-edge solutions to optimize energy production and consumption.
Chairman of the Sectoral Group, Ijeoma Oduonye, reinforced the importance of innovation, technology, and collaboration in overcoming persistent issues such as high energy costs, foreign exchange scarcity, and infrastructure deficits. MAN’s Director General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, lauded the sector for producing world-class electrical and electronic products, affirming its potential to drive energy efficiency and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP. The event underscored the commitment to transforming the energy landscape through strategic efforts and sustainable practices.
