The Federal Government has highlighted the environmental challenges associated with the cement industry, emphasising the importance of compliance with environmental regulations.

The Minister of Environment, Mr. Balarabe Lawal, who received Lafarge Africa management team led by the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi to his office in Abuja, commended the company for its commitment to environmental sustainability and role as a key player in the cement industry.

He urged Lafarge Africa to fully comply with 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 called for the adoption of modern, cleaner production and energy-efficient technology to align with global best practices.

The minister requested increased Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), including the construction of toilet facilities in host communities, to strengthen the company’s relationship with them.

He also commended the company for adopting a circular economy and promised to work, as part of the ministry’s focal strategy of a more hygienic environment achieved by cleaning, sorting and recycling waste as Lafarge is doing.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Alade-Akinyemi, emphasised Lafarge Africa’s commitment to responsible operations and environmental sustainability, he highlighted the company’s role in the Nigerian construction and infrastructure development sectors over its 60-year history.

“As a key stakeholder, we share in the vision in ensuring manufacturing companies like ours operate responsibly, minimise their impact and contribute to the overall sustainability of the environment. We are confident that under your leadership the ministry will continue to attain its objectives.”

Acknowledging the crucial role of the ministry, Alade-Akinyemi appreciated the unwavering support in facilitating the approval of pivotal 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.

He expressed Lafarge Africa’s eagerness to collaborate more closely with the ministry on climate change and sustainability initiatives. He acknowledged the importance of collective efforts in advancing sustainable practices within the industry.

He further acknowledged the ministry’s commitment to timely issuance of permits and collaborative yearly joint inspections and expressed the company’s eagerness to collaborate more closely with the ministry on programmes and initiatives to promote environmental responsibility within the industry.

The GMD/CEO sought the ministry’s continued support for new projects, modifications, and yearly permits, emphasising its interest in 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.