MAN Boss Confident Anambra’ll Benefit from Diesel Dependence to gas-based Energy Transmission

By Praise Chinecherem

Chairman, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), South-East Region, Lady (Dr.) Adaora Chukwudozie identified transition from diesel dependence to gas-based energy as not just technical shift, but strategic pathway toward sustainable industrial growth.

Chukwudozie stated this in Awka, Anambra state during an Energy Stakeholder Forum jointly presented by Anambra government and Shell Nigeria Gas (SNG) Limited, tagged, “Bridging the Energy Gap for Manufacturers”

She regretted challenges of cost and reliability of energy which, according to her, remained one of the most critical determinants of industrial competitiveness.

While applauding Anambra for its long demonstration of entrepreneurial capacity and manufacturing resilience that define the South-East economy, Chukwudozie was confident the state would benefit from the transition in view of its vibrant industrial clusters in Nnewi, Onitsha, Awka, Nkpor and surrounding areas.

She said, “For many manufacturers, the cost and reliability of power directly determine whether factories expand, stagnate, or shut down.

“Unlocking the full benefits of gas-driven industrialization will require deliberate collaboration between energy providers such as Shell Energy, government, regulators and industry stakeholders.

“Initiatives such as this demonstrate how responsible energy providers can play a catalytic role in supporting industrial development and energy transition in our economy.

“Reliable gas infrastructure, transparent pricing structures, and supportive policy incentives will be essential to encourage manufacturers—particularly SMEs—to embrace this transition.

“From the perspective of manufacturers, the opportunity is very clear: reliable and affordable gas can reduce production costs, stabilize industrial energy supply, and strengthen the competitiveness of locally manufactured products.

“If properly structured, gas infrastructure within industrial clusters can transform Anambra into a leading model for sustainable industrial energy in Nigeria and the wider West African region.

The MAN boss further lauded development partners, including Shell Energy for driving the conversation on gas-driven industrialization, reaffirming the group’s continued partnership with stakeholders in building energy framework capable of supporting resilient manufacturing and inclusive economic growth.

“We commend Shell Energy and the Government of Anambra State for initiating this important dialogue. Conversations like this are necessary to translate policy aspirations into practical industrial solutions.

“The opportunity before us is clear: reliable and affordable energy can unlock the full potential of Anambra’s manufacturing clusters and accelerate sustainable industrial growth,” she added.

Also speaking, Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr Julius Chukwuemeka reassured state government commitment to reliable, affordable and clean source of power to the people of the state.

He said the Stakeholder Forum was targeted at harnessing abundant gas reserve the state is blessed with for the benefits the people of the state, including boosting industrialization in the state.

He said, “Anambra government is determined to ensure reliable, affordable and clean source of power is delivered to the door steps of all citizens and stimulate industrial revolution.

“Today’s discussion is around gas power which is one of the power solutions. The pipe natural gas has lots of advantages, namely price reduction, reliability, even in the midst of national grid collapse.

“Remember, the state has abundant gas reserve around Omambala region and Ogbaru axis. What we’re doing today is to harness those natural resources for good use to the people of the state.

“This is a step towards boosting industrialization in the state. The governor has already mapped out over 5000 hectares of lands for Anambra industrial city.

“But the city can’t be functional with epileptic power. That’s why today’s engagement is critical; it’s one of the several partnerships to boast industrialization.”

Making a presentation on “Industrialization in Anambra, Realities, Challenges and Opportunities” Secretary to State Government, Prof Solo Chukwulobelu said ingredients of industrialization, including ingenious and entrepreneurial spirit and culture as well as industrial clusters are domiciled in the state.

He however identified energy constraints, infrastructure gaps, road networks, limited access to long term finance and regulatory bottlenecks as challenges facing industrialization in the state.

Earlier, General Manager, SNG, Raph Gbobo pledged the group’s commitment to co-create workable solutions with the state, including displacing diesel through deployment of bridge solution via virtual gas and creating cost effective and scalable power market within key clusters within the state.

Other government functionaries at the occasion were Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning Chiamaka Nnake, Commissioner for Industry, Christian Udechukwu and that of Petroleum, Bar Anthony Ifeanya, among other dignitaries.