By Nafisat Makinde
The Federal Government of Nigeria launched the Northeast LPG Penetration Programme in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. This initiative aims to transition 1 million households to clean cooking solutions within the next three years, addressing energy poverty, particularly among women in rural areas.
According to the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, “the reality calls for urgent action” as over 98,000 Nigerians die annually from household air pollution caused by cooking with firewood and other solid fuels (World Health Organization).
“My work takes me across the country, and in every community I visit, I see firsthand the struggles of women—particularly in the rural areas—who bear the heaviest burden of our nation’s energy poverty,” the Minister said.
The Minister emphasized the importance of addressing energy poverty, stating that “we cannot claim to empower women if we do not free them from the health hazards and risks associated with traditional cooking methods.”
She noted that the programme is a crucial step towards achieving the government’s goal of reducing household air pollution and promoting clean cooking solutions. “The Northeast LPG Penetration Programme is a deliberate step toward transitioning Nigerian families from firewood dependency to clean, safe, and efficient cooking solutions.”
The Minister also highlighted the economic benefits of the programme, stating that it will “provide women with economic opportunities in the LPG value chain, facilitating training, entrepreneurship, and financing opportunities.”
She urged men to support the initiative, saying, “be champions of this change. Support the women in your lives. Advocate for safer cooking methods.”
The Minister concluded by emphasizing that “clean cooking is not a luxury; it is your right.”
Key Statistics:
- Annual Deaths: Over 98,000 Nigerians die from household air pollution.
- Household Reliance on Solid Fuels: 70% of households in rural areas rely on firewood and charcoal.
- Global Ranking: Nigeria ranks among the top five countries with the highest number of people relying on solid fuels for cooking.
- Target: Transition 1 million households to clean cooking solutions in the next three years.
I hope men knows that it is a right and not a luxury and I hope women demands that right ! Shalom
Is good to help the weak and the vulnerable in the society especially by those who hold the resources of the society in trust. It is a most. That is why they are elected, it is not a favour she do but is is a duty.