In a significant push towards Nigeria’s energy transition, the European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting clean cooking solutions as part of a broader strategy for sustainable and affordable energy access.
Speaking at a sensitization event in Plateau State, the EU’s Head of Section, Green and Digital Economy, Inga Stefanowicz, emphasized the urgent need to shift from traditional cooking methods to cleaner alternatives, citing their impact on public health, deforestation, and economic development.
“Cooking is not just about food; it is about health, education, environment, and climate,” Stefanowicz stated, highlighting the EU’s prioritization of clean cooking solutions in its partnership with Nigeria.
At the heart of this initiative is the Nigeria Energy Support Programme (NESP), a project funded by the EU and co-financed by Germany. The program focuses on promoting clean cooking, expanding rural electrification, and diversifying Nigeria’s energy sources to address persistent challenges in the sector.
Despite these efforts, Stefanowicz revealed that only 30% of Nigeria’s population currently uses clean cooking methods, with firewood and charcoal remaining dominant in many households. This over-reliance on traditional fuels not only drives deforestation but also exposes millions to harmful indoor air pollution. A 2018 World Health Organization (WHO) report linked household air pollution to 218,000 deaths in Nigeria, underscoring the urgency of adopting cleaner cooking technologies.
“Together, we can improve lives, protect the environment, and contribute to economic growth,” Stefanowicz urged, reaffirming the EU’s commitment to supporting sustainable energy solutions, especially in rural areas where access to clean cooking alternatives remains limited.
In a move to accelerate the adoption of clean cooking technologies, Plateau State’s Deputy Governor, Josephine Chundung Piyo, emphasized the benefits of these innovations, particularly for women and children.
“These technologies will reduce indoor air pollution and empower women by freeing up time spent on fuel collection,” she noted.
As part of Plateau State’s commitment, the Plateau State Polytechnic will establish a Clean Cooking Technology Research and Testing Centre to drive the development and implementation of innovative cooking solutions across the Northern region.
Ponzing Gamde, Managing Director of Plateau State Energy Corporation, echoed the importance of clean cooking adoption, stating, “By adopting these technologies, we can live cleaner, healthier lives and protect our environment.”
Ensuring the long-term success of clean cooking initiatives requires strong policy backing. Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Gabriel Dewan, represented by Engr. Owen Dagogot, assured stakeholders that the legislature is committed to supporting clean cooking solutions through appropriate legislation.
The event also featured an exhibition of cutting-edge clean cooking technologies, giving attendees a firsthand look at how these innovations can transform lives and safeguard the environment.
With the EU’s sustained partnership and Nigeria’s increasing focus on clean energy solutions, the country is on a path towards a greener, healthier, and more economically vibrant future.
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