The International Facility Management Association (IFMA), Nigeria Chapter, has announced a range of strategic initiatives aimed at boosting professional capacity, driving industry research and preparing facility managers for Nigeria’s changing energy landscape.

The plans were unveiled at the IFMA Corporate Membership event, themed “Evaluating the Impact of New Energy Regulations on Facility Management, The Lagos State Example.” The association also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with government and private sector stakeholders to build a more resilient and future-ready facility management industry.

Among the key initiatives are the establishment of an IFMA Learning and Innovation Centre, the creation of a Research and Development Platform, the launch of an industry Talent Bank, and expanded partnerships to address the country’s facility management skills gap through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Speaking at the event, IFMA Nigeria President, Sheriff Daramola, said the association is focused on building an ecosystem that equips professionals with the knowledge, technology and practical skills needed to meet the evolving demands of the industry.

According to him, the proposed Learning and Innovation Centre will serve as a hub for training, certification, innovation and corporate collaboration. He added that the Talent Bank will connect employers with verified professionals to improve recruitment and tackle industry-wide skills shortages, while the Research and Development Platform will promote practical, data-driven solutions in areas such as energy efficiency, workplace experience, asset performance, facility management technology and financing.

Delivering the keynote address, Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, said the state’s ongoing electricity sector reforms present significant opportunities for facility managers to play a more strategic role in developing sustainable, efficient and resilient infrastructure.

He noted that the Lagos State Electricity Law, alongside the establishment of key institutions including the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC), the Lagos Independent System Operator (LAISO) and the Lagos State Electrification Agency (LSEA), has created the foundation for a competitive electricity market that promotes investment, innovation and a more reliable power supply.