The Federal Government of Nigeria has endorsed a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing the global climate crisis and improving livelihoods through the distribution of 80 million clean cookstoves to households across the nation.
The initiative, launched by Greenpath Africa Limited in collaboration with strategic partners, is the largest single clean cooking systems project in the world.
The National Council on Climate Change announced that “the project aims to combat the adverse health and environmental impacts associated with traditional cooking methods, such as indoor air pollution and deforestation.”
Also, the initiative is expected “to significantly improve the lives of millions of Nigerians, particularly women and children who are most affected by harmful cooking practices.”
Dr. Olawale Akinwumi, President and CEO of Greenpath Africa Limited, along with Dr. Salisu Dahiru, Director General of the National Council on Climate Change, formally endorsed the Improved and Efficient Cooking Energy Solution for Nigeria – a Programmatic Article 6.4 Project.
Dahiru, who also serves as the Designated National Authority (DNA) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Focal Point in Nigeria, said, “This initiative represents a major step forward in our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development in Nigeria.”
Dahiru added, “The provision of clean cookstoves will lead to improved indoor air quality, reduce respiratory illnesses, and contribute significantly to mitigating climate change.”
The adoption of clean and efficient cookstoves is expected to lower carbon emissions and reduce deforestation, leading to sustainable forest development and job creation.
Akinwumi emphasized the transformative potential of the project, stating, “This initiative will fundamentally change the way millions of Nigerians cook, providing a safer and more sustainable alternative to traditional methods.”
The clean cookstoves will be distributed free of charge, marking a significant investment in the health and well-being of Nigerian households. The initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to fostering accessible and inclusive solutions to environmental and health challenges.
This ambitious project underscores Nigeria’s commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development, setting a precedent for similar initiatives globally.