Things I wish I knew before I started - Lawal Aziz

If you were a boarding school student in Nigeria, you can relate to the struggle of studying by candlelight.  it’s exam season and its past light out, you are huddled over a stack of textbooks in the dim glow of a flickering candle. The world outside is silent, except for the occasional crackle of the candle wick and the distant hum of generators often out of reach for most families. For someone like my guest, Lawal Aziz, instead of just cursing the darkness, he was busy dreaming up ways to bring light—literally and figuratively—to those in need. Fast forward to today, and he's not just dreaming; he's making it happen.

In today’s blog, I had the pleasure of speaking to him, who is now a Sustainable Energy and Climate Finance Specialist/Expert. Fun fact about Lawal: he owns a library with over 200 books.

Lawal’s career is like a high-stakes game of chess, where each move he makes in climate finance and investment banking is a strategic play toward a greener future. He’s the guy who’s not just pushing the envelope but redesigning it, whether he’s structuring green projects or crafting game-changing energy policies for Ghana. In this interview, Lawal spills the secrets behind his innovative projects, reveals his most significant inspirations, and shares invaluable advice for those ready to dive into the world of climate solutions.

If you’re just joining us, this series “Things I wish I knew before I started” spotlights young and resilient Africans, taking us into a glimpse of their lives and the valuable lessons they learned from their experiences. I hope you enjoy this interview.

Let’s start from the beginning. I know you wear many hats, but introduce yourself, so we can get to know you better.

I am Lawal Aziz and I am problem solver. I was raised by parents who instilled in me a mindset of not just questioning the status quo, but actively seeking solutions.

My dad’s mantra, “So what do we do about it?” was a constant reminder to be proactive and resourceful. As someone with a naturally curious disposition, I often found myself asking countless questions, and with his guidance, I learned the value of finding answers on my own.  This upbringing shaped me into an outspoken, outgoing individual who is driven by a perpetual goal of excelling in my professional field. I thrive in environments where collaboration and camaraderie are central, believing that meaningful work when truly understood and appreciated, can become a source of enjoyment. My ultimate aspiration is to strike the perfect balance between a fulfilling career and nurturing the relationships that matter most in my life.

That’s quite profound. Let’s talk about your career for a second. What do you find most rewarding about your work in climate finance and sustainability?

Well, they say necessity is the mother of invention, and my journey toward a career in climate and sustainability is a testament to that truth. My fascination with sustainable energy systems started in high school, where frequent power outages forced us to rely on torches and candles to study. These challenges were not just inconveniences, but I saw an opportunity to find solutions - specifically, sustainable energy systems that could provide off-grid power to schools and communities in need.

Fast forward to today, I find myself straddling the realms of climate finance and investment banking, where I have the privilege of structuring and financing green projects that push us closer to net zero. This role allows me to translate my early passion into real-world impact, contributing to projects that are at the forefront of our fight against climate change.

Moreover, my work with DFIs to develop climate and energy policies has been particularly fulfilling. It has reinforced my belief that meaningful change begins at the strategic level. One of my most significant contributions has been the development of the Ghana Industrial Energy. Efficiency Policy, which, once ratified by the Energy Ministry, will be a cornerstone in the nation’s journey toward industrial decarbonization.

If I may ask, what inspired you to start working with Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) like the UN and GIZ?

I was drawn to working with Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) like the UN and GIZ because they were at the forefront of impactful work in Ghana, particularly in the energy sector. These institutions were not just about policy; they brought in global experts to collaborate on local projects, making a real difference on the ground. I realized that if I wanted to learn from the best and contribute meaningfully, these were the organizations to be part of.

My journey began with the Ghana Industrial Energy Efficiency Project under UNIDO, where I had the opportunity to visit high-energy-intensive plants—like steel, cement, and manufacturing factories—to gain firsthand experience in industrial energy processes. Also assisting experts to develop case studies on systemic ways to optimize operations and reduce emissions. This experience was invaluable, as it provided deep insights into the practical challenges and opportunities within the industry.

Working with DFIs also meant liaising with a diverse range of stakeholders, from government agencies to industry clusters, local consortiums, and international experts. This exposure gave me a well-rounded and informed view of the industry, something that was both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Additionally, the multicultural and diverse work environment within DFIs was something I truly enjoyed, as it allowed me to work alongside people from different backgrounds, bringing a richness of perspectives to every project.

As a technical advisor, what are some of the resources or tools that you found helpful or useful in your work or learning?

The World Bank Open Learning Library (OLL) has been an invaluable resource for me in taking my baby steps in the field of climate finance and sustainability as it provides In-depth analyses and reports authored by experts in various climate disciplines. Also demonstrates real-world examples that illustrate successful (and sometimes unsuccessful) development projects and policies.

If your life at this moment was the chapter or title of a book, what would it be called and why?

If my life at this moment were a chapter or title of a book, it would be called "The Balancing Act:

I believe this captures the essence of where I am right now working to harmonize my professional aspirations with my passions and relationships.

Life feels like a continuous effort to balance the demands of a dynamic career with the need to stay grounded in what truly matters to me.

It's about finding that sweet spot where I can excel in my work while also making time for the people and pursuits that bring me joy and fulfillment.

What's the most exciting or innovative climate finance project you've been involved in, and why?

One of the most exciting and innovative climate finance projects I've been involved in was the Ghana Industrial Energy Efficiency Project. This project was particularly groundbreaking because it went beyond just implementing energy-saving measures; it aimed to create a lasting impact by helping to shape the country's industrial energy policy.  Our work involved conducting energy audits for energy-intensive companies, where we identified significant opportunities for optimizing energy use within factories. This hands-on approach not only provided immediate savings but also laid the groundwork for long-term energy efficiency in the industrial sector.

 Another key aspect of the project was the collaboration with local and international consortiums to develop case studies that served as benchmarks for other companies. These case studies were instrumental in demonstrating the financial and environmental benefits of energy efficiency, making a strong case for broader adoption across the industry. Moreover, we engaged in extensive stakeholder consultations, bringing together key government agencies like the Ministry of Energy, Energy Commission, Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Environment. These consultations ensured that the policy recommendations were aligned with national priorities and had the support needed for successful implementation.

Who has been your biggest mentor or inspiration in your career, and why?

Marko Markov has been a pivotal mentor in my career, and our paths first crossed during my tenure at UNIDO. His firm, Econoler—the largest energy consulting company globally—was one of our consultants. I was immediately struck by his deep understanding of sustainable finance and his remarkable efficiency in executing projects. Marko's ability to navigate the complexities of energy efficiency, coupled with his knack for developing innovative financial products, left a lasting impression on me.

Beyond his technical expertise, Marko's encouragement was transformative. Each time he visited Ghana for his consulting work with various organizations and banks, he took the time to meet with me, offering words of motivation. He often said I had the potential to surpass him, urging me to work diligently and strive for excellence. His role in the Bulgaria Energy Efficiency Fund is a testament to his expertise, and his work across over 30 countries has been a blueprint for my aspirations in climate finance.

Marko's influence extended to my work with GIZ and TGX, where his guidance helped shape my approach to sustainable energy projects. He remains a constant source of inspiration, driving me to push the boundaries in my field.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self before starting your journey in climate finance?

If I could go back in time, I would tell my younger self to embrace the learning curve in climate finance with patience and persistence. The field is complex and ever-evolving, and it's easy to get overwhelmed by the technicalities and the breadth of knowledge required. But every challenge is an opportunity to deepen your expertise and make a meaningful impact.

I would also advise focusing on building a solid network of mentors and peers early on. The climate finance landscape thrives on collaboration, and having the right people to guide, support, and challenge you can make a significant difference in your growth. Your network is your net worth. Most of my most profitable engagements have come through referrals from friends and professional acquaintances.

How do you stay motivated and inspired to make a difference in the world, and what tips would you give to other young people looking to follow a similar path?

For young people looking to follow a similar path, my advice would be to start by finding your passion within the broad field of sustainability. Whether it’s renewable energy, sustainable finance, or environmental policy, project development identifying what excites you will keep you driven even when challenges arise.

Secondly, invest in education and practical experience. Seek out internships, volunteer opportunities, mentors, or projects that allow you to apply what you’ve learned and build a network of contacts in the field.

Lastly, be patient, and persistent and stay hungry for success. The journey in climate finance and sustainability is often complex and can be slow to yield visible results. But with dedication and a clear vision, you can contribute to significant change over time. Keep your end goal in sight, but also celebrate the small victories along the way.