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

<em>L-R: Past President, IFMA Nigeria Chapter, Miss Iyabo Aboaba; President, IFMA Nigeria Chapter, Engr. Sheriff Daramola; Honourable Commissioner for Energy & Mineral Resources, Lagos State, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye and CEO, Venco, Mr. Chude Osiegbu at the IFMA Nigeria Chapter Maiden Corporate Membership Event 2026</em>

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 government and the private sector to build 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, Engineer 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.

“The future of facility management will be built through collaboration, innovation and shared commitment. By strengthening research, investing in capacity building, and working closely with government and industry, we are creating a profession that is better equipped to deliver sustainable value for businesses, communities, and the Nigerian economy,” he said.

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.

He added that these reforms will enable facilities to integrate renewable energy, embedded generation, battery storage and smart energy management systems, reducing operating costs while improving energy resilience.

“The new energy regulations are not simply compliance requirements; they are opportunities to build smarter, greener, more resilient and more efficient facilities. Facility managers will play a critical role in translating these reforms into real economic growth and sustainable development,” he added.

The engagement reaffirmed IFMA’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that advance professional standards, enhance workforce development, and position facility management as a catalyst for sustainable infrastructure development and economic growth in Nigeria.