Industry update for cleaning professionals “way forward”

The recent removal of fuel subsidies in Nigeria has had a widespread impact on various sectors of the economy, including the cleaning industry. One of the major concerns for cleanerpreneurs is the absenteeism or disappointment of workers, which has been observed in many workplaces, and clients who are unwilling to agree to an increase in prices despite the rising costs of production. Engr. Dr. Awosanmi Olaniyi Olutayo, Known as Engr. Pompey is a Cleaning Coach and certified practitioner with the British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc), ISSA, FCILG (USA), a member of the Cleaning Practitioners Association Of Nigeria (CPAN), PECAN, and many other certified bodies, and is the CEO of Punpin Concept Venture and PCV Training Academy. One of the foremost cleaning training academy in Nigeria (PCV Group), a leading firm in the facility management/cleaning industry, and a highly sought-after consultant for corporate, national, and international bodies, recently expressed his concerns about this situation and offered solutions.

Engr. Pompey emphasized that the cleaning industry in Nigeria has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years due to changing consumer demands, which has forced cleaning practitioners to continually seek knowledge and regularly train and retrain their workforce. To manage the current situation and maintain the quality of services provided, Engr. Pompey recommended that companies develop customized cleaning plans and schedules that ensure every working hour counts and shows productive results. He also suggested that cleaners should integrate smart technologies for efficiency, such as robotic vacuum cleaners that autonomously navigate and clean spaces, and smart sensors that monitor cleanliness levels. With this automation, technology cleaning tasks are done efficiently and accurately, reducing the need for supervision and addressing the rising absenteeism of the workforce.

Engr. Pompey also advised that counselling be provided to boost the morale of workers during this challenging period and that rewards for excellent performance be encouraged, even if it may cost the company. Employers must be prepared to bear the cost to keep the business going and retain the quality of service they deliver. To ensure a fair balance, employees must increase productivity, especially in the area of sales or generating income for the company.

Engr. Pompey advised every cleanerpreneur or service provider to price their services effectively, considering all necessary factors before offering quotations to clients. In his opinion, it is better to break even than to lose on the job or transaction.

In conclusion, Engr. Pompey urged the federal government to support citizens and businesses during this difficult period, saying that the multiplier effect of the removal of fuel subsidies is having a significant impact on the prices of goods and services. He also reminded cleanerpreneurs and service providers that not everyone who is a consumer is their customer, and that they should avoid the temptation to take fewer offers for a job, as this could damage their quality standards and reputation.