By Ayomide Otitoju
Lafarge Africa Plc has unveiled a new Alternative Fuel and Raw Material (AFR) platform at its Mfamosing plant, marking a groundbreaking shift in sustainable cement production and reinforcing the company’s role as a leader in environmentally responsible practices within Nigeria’s construction industry.
The new AFR platform, developed by Lafarge Africa—a member of the global Holcim Group—aims to reduce the environmental impact of cement production by substituting conventional fossil fuels with energy from non-recyclable waste materials. This move aligns with Lafarge’s commitment to sustainable innovation and economic empowerment, setting a precedent for cleaner production standards in Nigeria.
Mr. Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, GMD/CEO of Lafarge Africa Plc, underscored the significance of this milestone: “This is not only a key achievement for Lafarge Africa but also a leap forward for Nigeria’s construction industry. By integrating alternative fuels and raw materials, we reduce CO2 emissions and position ourselves as pioneers of sustainable practices in Nigeria and across Africa.”
The AFR platform is also expected to contribute significantly to local economic empowerment, generating jobs for small businesses and individuals involved in the collection, sorting, and supply of materials to the plant. This initiative will boost demand for local truck operators, logistics providers, and small enterprises, making the AFR platform a catalyst for job creation and community engagement.
Daniel Adedokun, Head of Lafarge Geocycle, emphasized the AFR platform’s alignment with Nigeria’s national Net Zero emissions goal. “This initiative strengthens our commitment to sustainable practices within Nigeria. Our platform not only reduces emissions but also reinforces partnerships with industries and communities as we collectively strive towards national CO2 reduction targets,” he stated.
The platform’s launch was met with enthusiasm from key government officials, community leaders, and industry stakeholders. Representing the Cross River State government, Michael Odere, Honorable Commissioner for Finance, expressed support on behalf of Governor Prince Bassey Otu. “Lafarge’s initiative reflects how public and private sectors can collaborate for sustainable development, advancing our vision of an environmentally sustainable and economically robust Cross River State,” he said.
Commissioner for Environment Hon. Moses Osogi also lauded Lafarge’s efforts. “By turning waste into wealth, Lafarge is empowering our youth and leading in environmental responsibility. This initiative promises to create a cleaner and more sustainable environment,” he affirmed, pledging his ministry’s full support.
Etukudo Etim, State Coordinator of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), praised Lafarge’s commitment to sustainability and encouraged continued innovation. “This project sets a new standard by lowering emissions and fostering environmental stewardship,” he noted.
Representing the oil and gas sector, Chevron Nigeria’s Environmental Supervisor & Waste Management Manager, Eromosele Itala, highlighted their partnership with Lafarge. “Since 2021, we’ve collaborated to turn waste into alternative fuel for cement production. This partnership addresses one of our biggest urban challenges—sustainable waste management—through a shared commitment to environmental responsibility,” he stated.
With the launch of its AFR platform, Lafarge Africa not only strengthens its environmental stewardship but also enhances Nigeria’s path toward a circular economy, setting a transformative example for the entire construction industry.
