Anambra Manufacturers Advocate Gas Energy to Combat Soaring Power Expenses
Manufacturers in Anambra State have voiced significant concerns over the escalating costs of diesel, fuel, and other power sources, warning that these expenses are severely impacting industrial operations and threatening business sustainability. The call for action was made during an energy stakeholders' forum in Awka, organized by the Anambra State Government and Shell Nigeria Gas (SNG).
High Energy Costs Threaten Manufacturing Sector
Lady (Dr.) Ada Chukwudozie, the Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) for the Anambra, Enugu, and Ebonyi zone, highlighted the critical role of energy affordability and reliability in the survival and expansion of manufacturing businesses. She emphasized that for many factories, power costs directly influence decisions to expand, stagnate, or shut down, placing immense pressure on the industrial landscape in the state.
Gas Transition as a Strategic Solution
Chukwudozie advocated for a shift from diesel dependence to gas-based energy, describing it as a strategic pathway to enhance industrial productivity and sustainability. She noted that key manufacturing clusters in Nnewi, Onitsha, Awka, and Nkpor could greatly benefit from reliable and affordable gas-powered systems. According to her, this transition would reduce production costs, stabilize energy supply, and boost the competitiveness of locally manufactured products.
Collaboration is key to unlocking these benefits, Chukwudozie stressed, calling for strong partnerships among government bodies, energy providers, regulators, and industry stakeholders. She outlined essential requirements for success, including reliable gas infrastructure, transparent pricing structures, and supportive policy incentives, particularly to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to adopt gas solutions.
Shell Nigeria Gas Pledges Support for Energy Solutions
Raph Gbobo, General Manager of Shell Nigeria Gas, reaffirmed the company's commitment to collaborating with the state to develop practical energy alternatives. He mentioned exploring measures to replace diesel with gas through options like virtual gas systems, aiming to create a more affordable and scalable power market within Anambra's industrial clusters.
Government and Stakeholders Emphasize Collaboration
The forum attracted senior government officials, including Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Secretary to the Anambra State Government, and commissioners from various departments such as Power and Water Resources, Budget and Economic Planning, Industry, and Petroleum. Participants underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between government, investors, and manufacturers to address energy challenges and foster industrial development in the state.
Chukwudozie commended the initiative by Shell Nigeria Gas and the Anambra State Government, describing the dialogue as a crucial step toward translating policy aspirations into actionable industrial solutions. She expressed optimism that reliable and affordable energy could unlock the full potential of Anambra's manufacturing sector and accelerate sustainable growth.
