Lagos Energy Reforms to Transform Facility Management Practice, Drive Sustainable Growth

Oriarehu Bonny

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA), Nigeria Chapter, has unveiled a series of strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening professional capacity, advancing industry research, and preparing facility managers for Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape. As it deepens collaboration with the government and the private sector, the association is building a more resilient facility management industry.

The initiatives were highlighted during the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Corporate Membership event themed, “Evaluating the Impact of New Energy Regulations on Facility Management – The Lagos State Example,” where the association outlined plans to establish an IFMA Learning and Innovation Centre, develop a Research and Development Platform, launch an industry Talent Bank and expand partnerships to bridge Nigeria’s facility management skills gap through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Speaking at the event, the President of IFMA Nigeria, Sheriff Daramola, said the association remains committed to creating a stronger ecosystem that equips professionals with the knowledge, technology and practical skills required to meet the changing demands of the industry.

He noted that the proposed Learning and Innovation Centre will serve as a hub for training, certification, innovation and corporate collaboration, while the Talent Bank will connect employers with verified professionals to improve recruitment outcomes and address skills shortages across the industry and the Research and Development Platform, will generate practical, data-driven solutions in areas including energy efficiency, workplace experience, asset performance, facility management technology and financing.

Delivering the keynote address, the Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, said the state’s electricity sector reforms are creating new opportunities for facility managers to become strategic partners in delivering sustainable, efficient and resilient infrastructure.

Ogunleye explained that the Lagos State Electricity Law and the establishment of key institutions such as the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC), Lagos Independent System Operator (LAISO) and Lagos State Electrification Agency (LSEA) have laid the foundation for a competitive electricity market that encourages investment, innovation and reliable energy supply.