Kaduna State has launched a clean cooking stoves distribution initiative aimed at improving public health and reducing environmental degradation. The project, implemented in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Environment, seeks to curb deforestation, lower indoor air pollution, and cut carbon emissions from traditional cooking methods.
Abubakar Buba, Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, announced the programme on Tuesday in Kaduna. Represented by Ahmed Abdullahi, Director of Administration and Finance, Mr. Buba said the initiative aligns with Governor Uba Sani’s environmental sustainability agenda and represents a significant step toward climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods in the state.
“The Federal Ministry of Environment’s support is timely and will help address the environmental and public health challenges linked to unsafe cooking practices,” Mr. Buba said.
Abdurrahman Bashir, Director of the Climate Change Department at the Federal Ministry of Environment, said the campaign forms part of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation. He noted that traditional cooking fuels contribute heavily to indoor air pollution and deforestation. The National Clean Cooking Policy targets universal access to clean cooking energy by 2030, and the campaign will raise awareness, build local capacity, and promote safer cooking practices.
Bashir urged beneficiaries to adopt and maintain the stoves properly to maximise health and environmental benefits.
Beneficiaries welcomed the initiative. Nafisatu Bello said the stoves would eliminate harmful smoke exposure and reduce cooking costs. “I no longer have to worry about inhaling smoke while cooking. It will improve my health and save time and money,” she said.
Esther Anthony said the programme empowers women to adopt safer cooking methods while protecting the environment. “We have learned the dangers of smoke inhalation and the need to reduce carbon emissions. We are grateful to the Federal and state governments for this support,” she added.
The rollout marks a key milestone in Kaduna’s drive to promote cleaner energy, protect natural resources, and enhance community well-being.
