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In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG), and other clean cooking methods to address environmental degradation and other effects of climate change, the National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) is promoting the use of clean cooking method in the country.

Director General of the Agency, Dr Yusuf Bukar disclosed this on Thursday in his opening remarks on the occasion of the 2024 Great Green Wall Day held in Kano State.
Addressing stakeholders at the event held at Janguza Military Barracks, Kano, which had Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and Youth voices action in attendance, Dr Bukar said his Agency would not shirk in its statutory responsibility of promoting cleaner environment.

The DG of NAGGW in his opening remarks, entitled, “Fuelling a Greener Future: Clean Cooking for Sustainable Development, ”disclosed that his agency seized the initiative to distribute clean cooking stoves, as one of its proactive moves to provide environmentally friendly and efficient cooking solutions that reduce harmful emissions and promote better health outcomes.

He said: “Directors and field officers in the frontline states of the Agency have reached out to various communities to ensure the effective distribution of these stoves. By engaging directly with the communities, we are not only providing immediate support but also fostering long-term partnerships for environmental sustainability.

“By investing in clean cooking technologies, we not only reduce the burden on our natural resources and mitigate the impact of climate change, but we also create new economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for millions of people across the region. By placing community engagement at the heart of its initiatives, the National Agency for the Great Green Wall aims to foster a sense of ownership, build local capacity, and ensure the long-term sustainability of its environmental restoration efforts.

“Today, as we gather in this historic setting, let us renew our commitment to the Great Green Wall and the sustainable development of our communities. Let us work together, hand in hand, to fuel a greener future, one that is powered by clean cooking solutions and nurtured by the very land we stand upon.

“Clean cooking solutions significantly reduce air pollution, which is a major health hazard in many African communities. By adopting cleaner cooking methods, we can prevent respiratory diseases, improve health outcomes, and enhance the quality of life for millions.

“Traditional cooking methods often rely on wood and charcoal, leading to deforestation and increased carbon emissions. Clean cooking technologies, such as improved stoves and alternative fuels, help conserve forests and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change.

“The adoption of clean cooking solutions can drive economic growth and job opportunities. It can also reduce the time and effort spent on collecting firewood, allowing more time for education and income-generating activities, particularly for women and children.”

Dr Bukar maintained that his agency remained committed to what he called the vital task of transforming the nation’s landscape and empowering its communities.

He added: “The Great Green Wall is more than just a physical barrier against the encroaching deserts; it is a symbol of our collective resilience, our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, and our unwavering belief in a future where prosperity and sustainability coexist in perfect harmony.

“Today, we are thrilled to witness the planting of 400 seedlings using the innovative Groasis box technology. This technology, which harnesses the power of nature to nurture and sustain young plants, is a testament to the ingenuity and forward-thinking approach that underpins our work.”

Checks revealed that aside from the distribution of cooking stoves and tree planting, the NGGW
has established one (1) hectare of orchard plantations in Kano and Bauchi to commemorate this year’s Great Green Wall Day.

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