Schneider Electric Drives Profitability and Sustainability in Nigeria’s Consumer Packaged Goods Sector

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

In Nigeria’s fast-paced consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, manufacturers face a difficult balancing act. Pressured by inflation, currency volatility, and investor demands for short-term returns, many are prioritising immediate profitability at the expense of long-term sustainability. This has contributed to a widespread misconception that financial performance and environmental responsibility are mutually exclusive. In reality, Nigerian manufacturers can and must pursue both.
Ajibola Akindele, Country President of Schneider Electric, said three transformative trends—electrification, digital transformation, and circularity—are emerging as key enablers of this dual pursuit. “These trends are helping businesses not only withstand current market pressures but also position themselves for long-term growth and resilience,” he said.

Electrification is a critical step forward. Nigeria’s CPG sector, especially food and beverage manufacturing, relies on energy-intensive processes such as boiling, frying, and baking. Transitioning from diesel-powered systems to electric alternatives can yield major efficiency and sustainability gains. However, this shift requires thorough evaluation of existing infrastructure through electrical audits, alongside investment in reliable energy solutions like microgrids, solar hybrid systems, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). These technologies are helping manufacturers reduce costs, increase uptime, and cut carbon emissions.

As part of its regional engagement, Schneider Electric recently hosted a CPG-focused partner event in Ghana. The event showcased advanced industry-specific technologies and convened key stakeholders from across West Africa. Attendees included Simeon Omughelli, Key Account Manager, CPG & MMM, and Omobolanle Omotayo, Marketing Manager at Schneider Electric. The event underlined the company’s commitment to equipping regional manufacturers with the tools needed to address today’s energy and productivity challenges.

Digital transformation, the second pillar, adds intelligence and agility to operations. Through smart sensors, cloud-based platforms, and AI-powered analytics, manufacturers are gaining real-time visibility across production, warehousing, and distribution. Yet, technology alone is not enough. Companies investing in process improvement and workforce upskilling are unlocking the true value of digitalisation—enhancing product quality, reducing downtime, and boosting efficiency. Predictive maintenance and digital twins are already delivering results in production hubs like Lagos, Aba, and Kano.

The third pillar, circularity, is reshaping how Nigerian CPG firms manage resources and waste. Many manufacturers are now adopting practices such as ingredient optimisation, using local materials like cassava starch for packaging, and repurposing off-spec products. Regulatory efforts by NESREA and LAWMA are also accelerating takeback and recycling initiatives. Consumer research shows a growing preference among urban buyers for brands that demonstrate visible sustainability commitments.
“Nigeria’s CPG sector is at a turning point. Electrification, digitalisation, and circularity are no longer buzzwords; they are competitive imperatives. Manufacturers that embrace this integrated approach will not only strengthen profitability but also future-proof their businesses in a values-driven market,” Akindele said.
Schneider Electric is supporting this transition by enabling smart factories in Agbara and driving circular innovations in Ota. The company is helping Nigerian CPG companies transform their sustainability ambitions into concrete actions and build a more profitable, environmentally responsible future.