Rite Foods Challenges Stakeholders on Clean Energy Adoption

Transition Plan, expansion of domestic solar manufacturing, the issuance of a ₦50 billion green bond, and Lagos State’s clean energy projects such as solar street lighting, solar-powered public facilities, electric public transport, biodigesters, and the 80 million Clean Cookstoves Initiative.

A panel discussion featuring Olufemi Ajileye, General Manager Operations, Rite Foods, Olumide Idowu, climate advocate, Shofela Akinbode, Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Special Duties and Climate Change, and Eustace Onuegbu, Corporate Social Responsibility and sustainability expert, explored policy frameworks, technological innovation, financing models, and the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable industrial growth.

Highlighting the operational impact of this transition, Femi Ajileye, General Manager, Operations, Rite Foods Limited, noted that sustainability is 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, enhance predictability in energy spending.

For a manufacturer like us, this translates into stronger cost leadership, improved margins, and the ability to reinvest savings into innovation, quality, and market expansion.” he stated.

Beyond energy sourcing, the company 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 manufacturing competitiveness.

The event also featured goodwill messages from representatives of the Food and Beverages Recycling Alliance (FBRA), Federal Ministry of Environment, Sterling One Foundation, and GZI Industries, reinforcing the value of strong public-private partnerships in accelerating Nigeria’s clean energy transition.

Experts at the forum agreed that Nigeria’s transition to clean energy must be balanced, inclusive, and data-driven, shifting from linear energy use to circular systems that promote innovation, green jobs, and inclusive access.

“If managed wisely, clean energy will not slow Nigeria’s growth rather it will redefine it,” they concluded.

Rite Foods’ leadership in sustainability and innovation has earned the company several 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.