By Abbas Nazil
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has reiterated the urgent need to enhance the protection of Nigeria’s environment, stressing that President Bola Tinubu recognises the threats facing the country from multiple fronts.
Lawal was speaking during the inauguration of the Optimized System House at Vitapur Nigeria Limited in Lagos, a facility designed to produce ozone and climate-friendly polyurethane systems for rigid foam.
He explained that the upgraded plant, part of Stage II of the Hydro-chlorofluorocarbon Phase-out Management Plan, will help phase out 301.32 metric tons of ozone-depleting Hydro-chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC-141b).
The minister said the facility will foster local eco-friendly production, generate green jobs, and reduce import dependence, while ensuring Nigeria continues to align with international environmental standards.
He cited rising sea levels, flooding in Sokoto and Maiduguri, and erosion in central states as examples of climate threats Nigeria must urgently address.
According to him, the project represents Nigeria’s commitment to the Montreal Protocol, a global agreement signed in 1987 to eliminate substances harmful to the ozone layer.
Nigeria joined the protocol in 1988 and has since ratified all amendments, including the Kigali Amendment in 2018, which calls for a phasedown of hydro-chlorofluorocarbons.
Lawal explained that the Vitapur facility, developed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme and supported by the Multilateral Fund, builds on the success of Stage I while addressing issues like shrinkage and high density in foam production.
He noted that the project is one of only two in Africa, alongside South Africa, and ties directly to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which promotes indigenous production and environmental stewardship.
While thanking UNDP for its support, the minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding the environment for future generations, assuring that the Federal Government will continue to strengthen enabling policies.
Speaking on behalf of UNDP Resident Representative Elsie Attafuah, Mr. Muyiwa Odele described the inauguration as more than an infrastructure milestone but also a symbol of Nigeria’s leadership in environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
He said the facility demonstrates the power of collaboration between government, private sector, and the international community in advancing climate action while creating inclusive economic growth.
The Group Managing Director of Vitafoam, Mr. Taiwo Adeniyi, delivered the project status report, confirming that Phase II achieved a complete phase-out of HCFC-141b in production processes.
He explained that Vitapur now produces panels free from ozone-depleting chemicals and has enhanced its capacity in testing, trials, and training.
However, he noted challenges remain, especially in ensuring imported raw materials are also free of ozone-depleting substances, calling for the establishment of a central laboratory to monitor compliance.
The inauguration ceremony also featured the signing of an agreement, presentation of a completion certificate, and a guided facility tour by the minister and dignitaries.
Since its incorporation in 2009, Vitapur has produced chemical systems, insulated panels, and boards used in various construction applications including homes, schools, hospitals, and warehouses.
It also manufactures rigid foam pipe sections for insulation in industries such as oil and gas, food and beverages, and manufacturing.
Lawal observed that the Optimized System House is not only a step forward for Nigeria’s environmental sustainability but also a strategic investment in the country’s green economy and industrial competitiveness.
