In a decisive step toward achieving cleaner and safer domestic energy use, the Federal Government has flagged off its nationwide Clean Cooking Stove campaign in Oyo State, with a bold target of transitioning millions of Nigerian households to safer energy alternatives by the year 2030.
The campaign, which officially commenced on Monday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment and aligns with Nigeria’s climate change commitments and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on health, environment, and gender equality.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, a representative of the Minister of Environment emphasised that the adoption of clean cooking technologies will not only protect women and children from the health hazards associated with open firewood and charcoal usage, but also significantly reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.
“For far too long, our mothers and sisters have borne the burden of harmful cooking practices. This campaign is about more than just stoves — it’s about dignity, health, and the environment,” the minister stated.
Over 70% of Nigerian households, especially in rural and semi-urban communities, still rely on firewood and other biomass for cooking — a major contributor to indoor air pollution, which according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), leads to over 90,000 premature deaths annually in Nigeria alone.
The Federal Government’s clean stove initiative aims to distribute energy-efficient and eco-friendly cooking appliances to households, while also raising public awareness on the benefits of clean cooking. The Oyo pilot phase will serve as a model for subsequent rollouts in other states.
Officials said the government is working in partnership with private-sector players and international donors to ensure the affordability and accessibility of clean stoves. Women-led cooperatives and local manufacturers are also being engaged to create jobs and encourage local production.
As Nigeria works toward its net-zero emission goal by 2060, this initiative represents a major stride in promoting sustainable domestic energy solutions, especially for vulnerable populations who are most affected by climate and health challenges.
Residents in Oyo who received the stoves expressed gratitude, noting that the initiative would not only save them money on fuel but also improve their families’ overall well-being.
With firm policy direction and community buy-in, the government hopes that by 2030, no Nigerian household will have to rely on smoky, hazardous fuels to prepare a simple meal.
