Clean Energy Is Redefining Nigerian Manufacturing, Experts Say as Rite Foods Showcases Sustainability Leadership
By The People’s Voice Nigeria News
Industry experts, policymakers, and corporate leaders have emphasized that Nigeria’s transition to clean energy is no longer optional but a critical driver of sustainable industrial growth, cost efficiency, and long-term competitiveness.
Speaking at a high-level sustainability forum, experts explored policy frameworks, technological innovation, financing models, and the importance of collaboration in accelerating Nigeria’s clean energy transition. The discussions featured contributions from specialists in climate policy, corporate social responsibility, and sustainable development, including Eustace Onuegbu, a Corporate Social Responsibility and sustainability expert, who underscored the need for coordinated action across government and industry.
Highlighting the operational impact of clean energy adoption, Femi Ajileye, General Manager, Operations, Rite Foods Limited, noted that sustainability is deeply embedded within the company’s production systems.
“Clean and efficient energy systems are fundamentally about smarter operations. Investments in energy efficiency, in the long run, lower total cost of ownership, even if initial capital costs are higher. They also reduce maintenance costs and improve asset lifespan, which, in turn, enhances predictability in energy spending,” Ajileye said.
From Left: David Solarin, Director, Water Regulatory Enforcement and Advocacy, Ogun State Ministry of Environment; Ekuma Eze, Head of Corporate Communications and Sustainability, Rite Foods Limited; Olumide Idowu, Clean Energy Advocate; Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy to the Governor of Lagos State; Dumebi Azubuike, Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Expert; Barong Asiodu, General Manager, Corporate Planning and Strategy, Rite Foods Limited; and Olufemi Ajileye, General Manager, Rite Foods Limited; during the stakeholders’ forum on the International Day of Clean Energy organised by Rite Foods Limited, at the company’s headquarters in Lagos, on Friday, 30th January 2026.
According to him, for a manufacturing company like Rite Foods, these efficiencies translate into stronger cost leadership, improved margins, and the ability to reinvest savings into innovation, product quality, and market expansion.
Beyond energy sourcing, Rite Foods has adopted disciplined energy management practices that deliver low energy intensity per unit of production, outperforming typical industry benchmarks. Continuous investments in modern equipment, automation, and process optimization have further strengthened cost efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced the company’s overall manufacturing competitiveness.
The event also featured goodwill messages from representatives of the Food and Beverages Recycling Alliance (FBRA), the Federal Ministry of Environment, Sterling One Foundation, and GZI Industries, all of whom reinforced the importance of strong public-private partnerships in accelerating Nigeria’s clean energy and sustainability agenda.
Experts at the forum agreed that Nigeria’s clean energy transition must be balanced, inclusive, and data-driven, shifting from linear energy consumption to circular systems that promote innovation, green jobs, and inclusive access to energy.
“If managed wisely, clean energy will not slow Nigeria’s growth; rather, it will redefine it,” participants concluded.
Rite Foods’ leadership in sustainability and innovation has earned the company several industry recognitions, including Outstanding FMCG Corporate Brand of the Year at the Edge Awards, as well as multiple honours at the Sustainability, Innovation and Social Impact (SISA) Awards and the SERAS Awards, reinforcing its position as a proudly Nigerian brand driving responsible and future-focused growth.
