The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cleaner cooking practices in the North East region through the distribution of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) solutions.

The government also vowed to address the energy challenges in the region by promoting clean and affordable energy that is accessible to all.

These were highlighted during the launch of the North-East Decade of Gas Clean Cooking (LPG) Grassroots Penetration Programme in Maiduguri, Borno State, led by the minister of state for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo.

Speaking at the event, Ekpo emphasised the transformative potential of the Decade of Gas Initiative, which aims to transition Nigeria into a gas-powered economy.

He noted that distributing LPG cylinders to households is a critical step toward reducing health risks associated with traditional cooking fuels like firewood and charcoal.

Ekpo acknowledged the significant energy challenges faced by the North-East and expressed determination to make clean energy accessible and affordable.

This follows the call to address maternal and youth deaths caused by inhaling carbon monoxide and other poisonous gases from traditional cooking fuels with heavier carbon chains.

“The government’s commitment to making LPG available and affordable for all Nigerians is unwavering.

“Through collaborative efforts, we can achieve our vision of a gas-powered Nigeria.”

“This initiative demonstrates our unwavering commitment to ensuring no region is left behind,” Ekpo stated, urging beneficiaries to embrace cleaner cooking methods for healthier lifestyles.

The clean cooking initiative, conceived under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, seeks to convert 250,000 homes annually to LPG usage.

This effort aligns with the government’s strategy to reduce carbon emissions, combat deforestation, and improve air quality.

Ekpo also acknowledged Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum for his unwavering support towards the initiative and highlighted the health benefits of LPG adoption, particularly in reducing respiratory illnesses caused by exposure to smoke from traditional fuels.

Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman, underscored the significant impact this initiative will have on women and families in rural areas, shedding light on the daunting struggles women face when relying on firewood as a primary energy source in their homes.

She revealed the government’s plans to transition one million households to clean cooking gas by 2030, tackling environmental pollution, creating job opportunities, and boosting socio-economic activities through collaborative efforts with various sectors.

The coordinating director of the Decade of Gas Initiative, Ed Ubong, expressed gratitude to stakeholders such as MEMAN and NNPCL for their contributions. He reiterated that collaborative efforts are essential for achieving the government’s vision of a sustainable energy mix.

This programme not only supports Nigeria’s energy diversification goals but also strengthens its commitment to public health and environmental sustainability. By prioritising clean energy access in underserved regions, the government aims to foster healthier communities and a greener future for all Nigerians.