The federal government yesterday commenced the distribution of free gas cylinders to 1 million homes in the country in a bid to wean Nigerians from the continued use of firewood, cooking stoves and other harmful cooking fuels.
Speaking at the flag-off of the programme implemented through the 'Decade of Gas' secretariat in
The inaugural
"We're not only introducing a programme today, we're on a mission to change millions of Nigerians' lives in our six geographical zones. By 2030, we want to convert 250,000 houses a year to clean cooking gas, which is a lofty but attainable target.
"This programme is evidence of our steadfast dedication to lessening the over-reliance on solid fuels, which for a long time served as many households' primary source of energy and include firewood, kerosene, and charcoal.
"It is impossible to overestimate the negative consequences of utilising these conventional fuels. Their contribution to deforestation, environmental degradation, and harmful health impacts from indoor air pollution is substantial.
" In order to ensure a cleaner environment, enhance public health, and promote sustainable development, we must encourage the usage and adoption of LPG," he stated.
According to him, the initiative was a clear indication that
Ekpo stated that transitioning to clean cooking gas will be especially beneficial for women, who are disproportionately affected by the health effects of traditional cooking methods.
"We are advancing gender equality and economic empowerment by providing them with safer and more effective energy solutions," he stated.
Also speaking, the Coordinating Director of the Decade of Gas Programme , Mr
He added that working with private sector sponsors, over a million gas cylinders will be given to various homes in the coming years , translating to over 250,000 annually.
"This is in line with President
"We could have stayed inside the central part of
"So we will partner with private sector partners, working also under the supervisory leadership of the Minister of State for
"Today we will move about a thousand cylinders here in
Ubong stated that the secretariat was working closely with the local council reps who know where all the rural women are, while the smart gas team is also visiting the women in their homes to be sure that the cooking gas facilities reach those they are meant for.
In her remarks, the Minister of
"Beyond the health solution, this is a multi-faceted initiative. The programme impacts beyond health benefits now, and I would like to state as well that the
In his remarks, the Chief Executive of the
Represented by
Also at the event were: The Minister of Women Affairs,
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