- Minister John Enoh emphasised that reliable energy is central to Nigeria’s industrial development and that strengthening industrial clusters is the most practical way to deliver power and infrastructure efficiently.
- The Industrial Revolution Work-Group aims to identify priority industrial clusters and provide actionable solutions, including blended power sources such as gas and solar to complement the national grid.
The Federal Government has emphasised that reliable energy is critical to driving Nigeria’s industrial future. Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh, made this point during the Industrial Revolution Work Group Premier Ministerial Roundtable on Energy, Security, and Industrial Infrastructure, held on Wednesday in Abuja. Speaking on the theme “Beyond Power: Building the Backbone of Industry Energy, Infrastructure and Sovereignty in Action,” Mr Enoh described industrialisation as an economic imperative that cannot be postponed.
He further emphasised the need to enhance productivity through value-added processing and local production. According to the Minister, the programme aims to enhance Nigeria’s overall productivity by reducing raw material exports and improving economic management. Additionally, discussions within the Industrial Revolution Workgroup have identified two major obstacles to growth: energy insecurity and inadequate industrial infrastructure. These barriers, he stressed, must be addressed if Nigeria is to achieve meaningful industrial transformation.
Mr Enoh explained that the roundtable series would begin by addressing power supply challenges within industrial clusters. He noted that energy is central to industrial development and that strengthening clusters remains the most practical approach to delivering both energy and infrastructure efficiently. By focusing on industrial clusters, resources can be concentrated, and solutions implemented more effectively, ensuring that industries have the reliable power needed to operate at optimal levels.
While acknowledging the significance of the national grid, the Minister underscored that alternative energy sources must complement it. He pointed out that blended power solutions, including gas, solar, and other renewable sources, are essential, particularly in areas where grid supply remains unreliable. This diversified approach, he said, would ensure continuity of operations, reduce downtime and strengthen the overall resilience of Nigeria’s industrial sector.
Moreover, Mr Enoh emphasised that the forum was designed to produce actionable solutions. These include identifying priority industrial clusters and determining the most efficient and cost-effective ways to supply them with power. The Minister added that the initiative would also explore methods to enhance infrastructure, thereby ensuring that energy delivery is both reliable and sustainable over the long term.
Overall, the Minister’s address signalled a strong commitment to addressing Nigeria’s industrial energy challenges. By combining reliable power, alternative energy sources and targeted cluster development, the country is poised to strengthen its industrial base and drive sustainable economic growth.