The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is actively pursuing collaboration with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) to combat energy poverty in Nigeria. The primary focus is on the localization of renewable energy solutions and the acceleration of the country’s industrial development.
During the visit on October 11, 2023, Mr. Adekunle Olusile, Deputy Head of UNIDO Nigeria Office, led a delegation to meet with NASENI’s Management in Abuja. The aim was to facilitate partnerships between German companies and research institutions with NASENI, aiming to curb energy waste and support the government’s food production agenda.
Represented by Mrs. Nonyem Onyechi, Coordinating Director, Planning and Business Development, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman, and CEO of NASENI expressed gratitude for UNIDO’s outreach. NASENI, mandated to drive Nigeria’s industrial development, showcased its commitment to technology transfer and domestic production of capital goods for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
In a presentation, Engr. Emmanuel Ajani, Deputy Director of Engineering Infrastructure at NASENI, outlined the agency’s interventions in renewable, agricultural, and industrial sectors. The presentation included technological innovations, products, and machineries developed by NASENI.
Michael Schmidt, Team Lead of UNIDO Investment and Technology Promotion Office (ITPO) Germany, emphasized the organization’s role in mobilizing investments and technologies for sustainable industrial development. The visit aimed at identifying areas of collaboration between German companies and NASENI, focusing on socio-economic development.
The delegation from UNIDO expressed interest in supporting Nigeria’s food production agenda through food processing and packaging. Additionally, they sought to address energy waste through biogas production and implement renewable energy solutions like solar PV and batteries.
The collaboration aims to tap into Germany’s expertise in the renewable sector. The working group or committee established by NASENI and UNIDO will drive initiatives and engage potential partners. German companies, including Bloomhill Agroservices, (B)energy, Wilo Pumps, GEA, EMPO-NI, and University Weihenstephan Triesdorf, participated in the meeting held at Belanova Apartment and Suites in Abuja, marking a significant step towards advancing renewable energy and industrial development in Nigeria.
