Nigeria’s steel manufacturers are being encouraged to adopt sustainable manufacturing practices to help reduce emissions and promote environmental responsibility. Kenneth Erikume, Director of Tax Reporting and Strategy at PWC, made this call during the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Basic Metal, Iron, and Steel, and Fabricated Metal Product sectoral group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) in Lagos.
The event, held at MAN House, was centered around the theme, ‘Sustainable Metal Manufacturing: Navigating the Challenges of Green Production in Nigeria’s Industrial Sector.’ Erikume explained that sustainability involves meeting current needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet theirs. He emphasized the importance of using eco-friendly production materials and minimizing the environmental impact of mining activities.
“Mining must be carried out in a green and inclusive manner that supports value creation, job generation, and economic development,” Erikume stated. He further urged steel manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices and ensure fair wages to retain skilled workers.
Erikume also highlighted the importance of transitioning to sustainable power sources, establishing power factories, and collaborating with educational institutions to develop talent, noting that people are essential for creating sustainable businesses. He acknowledged the sector’s challenges, recognizing it as high-risk due to the limited number of successful stories.
The AGM also saw the election of new executives. Olalekan Adewoye, Managing Director/CEO of Sunsteel Industries Limited, was elected president, with Anu Agarwal of African Industries serving as vice president. Outgoing president Yusuf Kamoru stressed the sector’s vital role in economic growth and noted that, despite operating challenges, there are still opportunities within the industry.
Director-General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, expressed his anticipation for a leadership team that will drive the sector’s advocacy and strategic initiatives, pushing for reforms to enhance its competitiveness in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the global market.
Ajayi-Kadir, represented by Ambrose Oruche, the Director of Special Purpose Vehicles at MAN, also acknowledged the successful efforts of the outgoing president, including halting the establishment of a Metal Scrap Dumpster, which could have disrupted operations. Newly elected president Adewoye assured members of his commitment to addressing their needs and leading the sector forward with dedication.
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