In alignment with Nigeria’s commitment to the Montreal Protocol, the Ministry of Environment is currently implementing the Hydrochlorocarbons Phase-out Management Plan (HPMP) to phase out 344.9 tonnes of HCFCs by 2040. This ambitious project, led by UNDP and co-implemented by UNIDO, with support from the Government of Italy as a Bilateral Agency, represents a significant step towards safeguarding both our environment and public health.
A key focus of the HPMP Project under Stage II is enhancing Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) training across Nigeria. To this end, the Ministry, in collaboration with UNDP, has procured state-of-the-art RAC training equipment. These resources are set to establish two Centers of Excellence and upgrade 16 existing training centers. This initiative will facilitate the training and certification of RAC technicians in best practices, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to handle modern, environmentally friendly refrigeration technologies.
The equipment, currently stored in Lagos, is scheduled to be officially handed over to representatives from the selected RAC training centers. This handover, to be officiated by the Honourable Minister of Environment, underscores the Ministry’s dedication to fostering a skilled workforce capable of supporting Nigeria’s transition to sustainable technologies.
Additionally, as part of the same HPMP III Project, the Ministry, alongside UNIDO, is converting four eligible companies in the AC manufacturing sector from using ozone-depleting HCFCs to ozone- and climate-friendly alternatives like Hydrocarbons (HC) and Hydrofluorocarbons-32 (HFC-32). We are pleased to announce the successful completion of the conversion at Sacral Nigeria Ltd, which is now ready for commissioning.
The commissioning of this new, environmentally-friendly AC manufacturing line at Sacral Nigeria Ltd, alongside the handover of the RAC training equipment, marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to protect the ozone layer and combat climate change. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to advance our mission towards a healthier planet, which took place on 4th April 2024.
