Lagos, Nigeria – At the 2026 Manufacturers Energy Security and Energy Efficiency Summit, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) called on local manufacturers to adopt artificial intelligence (AI), advanced technologies and energy‑efficient solutions to curb rising production costs, improve energy security and sharpen industrial competitiveness.
The summit, held in Lagos and jointly organised by Manufacturers Power Development Company Ltd. (MPDCL), the German development agency GIZ and the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), brought together industry leaders and government officials to discuss technology, sustainable energy supply and structured financing for the sector.
MAN President Ifeanyi Okoye said the association’s industrial energy‑cost reduction programme will promote factory rooftop solar installations, battery energy storage systems, captive natural‑gas solutions and smart energy‑management networks. He noted that manufacturers currently allocate roughly 40 % of their profits to address energy challenges, with high electricity tariffs, unreliable grid supply and dependence on fossil fuels eroding competitiveness.
“The summit is to facilitate access to long‑term financing instruments, climate funds, green investments and asset‑financing mechanisms to support manufacturers’ transition to more efficient energy systems,” Okoye added. Director‑General Segun Ajayi‑Kadir stressed that emerging technologies are critical for improving production efficiency, reducing energy consumption and strengthening resilience, while MPDCL Chairman John Aluya warned that the high cost of self‑generation is squeezing profit margins.
- Solar photovoltaic systems
- Battery energy storage
- Captive gas power
- Energy‑efficiency measures
- Carbon‑credit monetisation
“AI could significantly boost industrial productivity and create new employment opportunities rather than displace workers,” said Ulf Brackmann, CEO of IKAPITAL Family Office & Friends. “But AI can only cut costs and boost efficiency where factories have dependable electricity and sound digital foundations. It is not a magic pill that solves all problems.”
<small>Source: Vanguard News — read the original story there.</small>