Nigerdock, the driving force behind Snake Island Integrated Free Zone, has announced an alliance with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to amplify the adoption of eco-friendly energy and attract sustainable foreign investments into Nigeria.
CEO Maher Jarmakani disclosed that 23 companies, part of a UNIDO delegation, converged at Nigerdock’s Lagos office to explore partnerships focusing on renewable energy, green technologies, and agribusiness.
Renowned for its maritime and logistics services, Nigerdock operates an integrated port and free zone in Lagos, offering terminal operations, marine services, logistics, and free zone solutions.
The company recently marked a pivotal step towards renewable energy by completing the first phase of its transition through solar installations at Snake Island Integrated Free Zone, partnering with Daystar Power for this endeavor.
Jarmakani highlighted the collaborative effort coordinated by UNIDO, alongside the Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Germany and the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council, aimed at facilitating European enterprises’ establishment in Nigeria.
This visit signifies a significant stride in fortifying the alliance between Nigerian and European private sector entities. Jarmakani affirmed the alignment of their commitment to Nigeria’s economic growth with the mission’s goals, foreseeing its contribution to industrialization, increased foreign investment, job creation, and the integration of green practices in Nigeria.
Emphasizing their strong global ties and dedication to Nigeria’s industrialization, Jarmakani positioned SIIFZ (Snake Island Integrated Free Zone) as an environmentally sustainable and economically feasible hub, catering to global businesses eyeing Africa’s rapidly growing markets.
He also highlighted that the Private Sector Mission includes expertise in sustainable packaging, circular economy, and waste management.
The visit follows German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Nigeria visit, underscoring the burgeoning relationship between Nigeria and Germany. Scholz expressed Germany’s interest in investing across multiple sectors, aiming for increased cooperation and investment between the two countries. He noted Nigeria as Germany’s second-largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa, with direct German investments amounting to $158m in 2021.
Michael Schmidt, Deputy Head of Office at UNIDO ITPO Germany, emphasized UNIDO’s commitment to industrial park development in developing nations, foreseeing valuable collaboration opportunities with Nigerdock’s infrastructure objectives.
