The Minister of Environment, Mr. Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has praised Lafarge Africa Plc, a leading innovative and sustainable building solutions company, for its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. The accolades came during a courtesy visit by the company’s management team, led by the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, to the Minister in Abuja.
In his welcome remarks, Minister Lawal commended Lafarge Africa for its consistent recognition with various awards in environmental responsibility, considering it as a clear indication of the company’s dedication to environmental friendliness. He highlighted the company’s compliance with rules and regulations, expressing his comfort in initiating a courtesy visit without waiting for regulatory enforcement.
The Minister further acknowledged Lafarge Africa’s significant role in the cement industry, recognizing its impact on the nation’s economic growth and development. While emphasizing the environmental challenges associated with the cement sector, Minister Lawal stressed the importance of adherence to environmental regulations.
The Minister urged Lafarge Africa to ensure full compliance with specific regulations, such as the National Environmental (Non-metallic minerals manufacturing industries sector) Regulations and the National Action Plan for mercury reduction in the cement sector. He encouraged the adoption of modern, cleaner production methods and energy-efficient technology in line with global best practices.
Additionally, Minister Lawal called for increased Corporate Social Responsibility, including the construction of toilet facilities in host communities, to strengthen the company’s relationship with local communities. He applauded Lafarge Africa’s commitment to the circular economy, expressing his interest in working together to achieve a more hygienic environment through waste cleaning, sorting, and recycling.
In his opening statements, Mr. Alade-Akinyemi congratulated Minister Lawal on his recent appointment, expressing confidence in the Minister’s leadership to advance the objectives of the Ministry. He reiterated Lafarge Africa’s commitment to responsible operations and environmental sustainability, citing the company’s vital role in Nigeria’s construction and infrastructure development sectors over its 60-year history.
As a key stakeholder, Alade-Akinyemi emphasized Lafarge Africa’s alignment with the vision of responsible manufacturing, minimizing environmental impact, and contributing to overall sustainability. He expressed confidence in the Ministry’s continued achievement of its objectives under Minister Lawal’s leadership.
Acknowledging the pivotal role of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Alade-Akinyemi appreciated the support in facilitating the approval of crucial projects aimed at enhancing Lafarge Africa’s environmental sustainability initiatives. Notably, he highlighted the swift approval process for Alternative Fuels for kiln firing at the Ewekoro and Mfamosing facilities and the Storage of ash permit for the Ashaka Captive Power Plant project.
Expressing eagerness to collaborate more closely with the Ministry on climate change and sustainability initiatives, Alade-Akinyemi underscored the importance of collective efforts in advancing sustainable practices within the industry. He acknowledged the Ministry’s commitment to timely permit issuance and collaborative annual joint inspections, expressing Lafarge Africa’s readiness to work closely on programs and initiatives promoting environmental responsibility within the industry.
The Group Managing Director/CEO sought the Ministry’s continued support for new projects, modifications, and annual permits, emphasizing Lafarge Africa’s commitment to championing a ‘zero waste’ treatment solution and ending open-air burning practices. The company proposed the implementation of an online process for project approvals and report submissions, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental footprints associated with traditional paperwork.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties expressed optimism about the potential for a strengthened partnership. Lafarge Africa Plc and the Federal Ministry of Environment aspire to set new benchmarks for environmental stewardship in the industry, contributing to a sustainable and eco-friendly future.
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