- Sahara Group Managing Director Kola Adesina urged Nigerians to support efforts to transform the country into a global energy hub.
- Chairman Emeka Onwuamaegbu called on African youth to develop bold, sustainable ideas through the MADAA initiative.
The Managing Director of Sahara Group, Kola Adesina, has expressed concern over Nigeria’s lagging energy sector, describing the country as being “backward” in terms of the quantity of energy delivered to its citizens.
Adesina made this statement in Lagos during the relaunch of the company’s Making A Difference Around Africa (MADAA) initiative. The programme aims to support entrepreneurs across the continent by providing access to markets, technology, and business advisory services.
“Energy is something that is lacking in Nigeria,” Adesina said. “We know how backwards we are in terms of the quantum of energy we’re delivering. Invariably, we are asking you to work equally to ensure that we become a hub for energy for Africa and the rest of the world. Let’s shape the future together.”
Speaking directly to inventors and researchers engaged with the MADAA Reloaded initiative, he emphasised that invention and innovation drive progress. “You are the architects of the future for us. Pushing the boundaries of what is possible is what we do in Sahara,” he said.
Adesina also underlined the importance of collaboration, stating, “At Sahara, we believe great ideas thrive when supported by strategic partnerships, market access, and capital. Let me tell you this: we are here to admire your creativity and work with you, transforming research into real-world solutions.”
He added that bridging the gap between innovation and industry would help build enterprises that drive inclusive growth, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
Also speaking at the event, Emeka Onwuamaegbu, Chairman of Sahara Group Foundation, highlighted the abundance of talent among young Africans. He stressed, however, that many lack the opportunities to showcase their ideas.
“In the past, when we attempted this, we saw a lot of people come up with ideas like making products out of used tyres, out of water hyacinth, and stuff like that,” Onwuamaegbu noted. “We want to encourage the youth now to develop more innovative ideas based on sustainability.”
He explained that while the initiative is launching in Nigeria, its vision spans the entire continent. “Although we are in Nigeria, this is not just about making a difference in Nigeria—it is about making a difference around Africa. We want this to extend to the 54 countries of Africa.”
Challenging young innovators across the continent, he concluded, “No matter how challenging your idea is, please share it with us, and we’ll partner with you.”
The MADAA initiative reinforces Sahara Group’s commitment to nurturing innovation, promoting energy access, and supporting sustainable development across Africa.