In the bustling city of Abuja, a group of passionate individuals embarked on a mission to revolutionize Nigeria’s cooling sector. 

Led by the project director and acting director of linkages, research and consultancy at the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Samaila Gambo Zaku, the team’s strategy was threefold. First, they advocated for the implementation of Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) to ensure only efficient air conditioners entered the market. Second, they emphasised the importance of communication, aiming to educate Nigerians about the benefits of energy-efficient appliances. Finally, they aimed to strengthen enforcement agencies like the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to ensure compliance with energy efficiency regulations.

Their efforts gained momentum with the support of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in the “Scaling Up Energy-Efficient and Climate-Friendly Cooling in Nigeria’s NDC Revision” project. Together, they tackled environmental challenges stemming from energy use in buildings, fostering awareness and collaboration at every step.

Their journey led them to ‘The Guardian Newspapers’ Abuja bureau, where they found a strategic partner.

The general manager of the newspaper, Chuks Nwanne recognised the critical importance of their mission and pledged the media house’s support to amplify their message and drive meaningful change across Nigeria.

As they forged ahead, their vision of a cooler, more sustainable future for Nigeria grew ever closer, fueled by collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship.

Also, part of the delegation to promote energy-efficient cooling solutions was the NSCP national project coordinator, Etiosa Uyigue and the project’s communication expert, Nkechi Isaac.