By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched the Northeast LPG Penetration Programme in Maiduguri, Borno State, aiming to transition 1 million households to clean cooking solutions within the next three years. This initiative is a significant step towards addressing energy poverty, particularly among women in rural areas who bear the brunt of traditional cooking methods.
To achieve its goal, the government has set a target of converting 250,000 households to clean cooking gas annually by 2030. This is an ambitious but attainable target, considering the country’s progress in promoting LPG adoption.
In 2020, Nigeria achieved a milestone of 1 million metric tonnes of domestic LPG consumption, with the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) company supplying 400,000 tons per annum.
According to the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the programme is part of government’s efforts to promote clean cooking energy across Nigeria. By providing access to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), the government aims to reduce the country’s reliance on firewood and other solid fuels, which contribute to deforestation and claim the lives of over 93,000 Nigerians annually.
“My work takes me across the country, and in every community I visit, I see firsthand the struggles of women—particularly in the rural areas—who bear the heaviest burden of our nation’s energy poverty,” She said.
While noting the importance of addressing energy poverty, the Minister stated that “we cannot claim to empower women if we do not free them from the health hazards and risks associated with traditional cooking methods.”
“The Northeast LPG Penetration Programme is a deliberate step toward transitioning Nigerian families from firewood dependency to clean, safe, and efficient cooking solutions.” She said.
The Hon. Minister also disclosed that the Northeast LPG Penetration Programme is expected to have a positive impact on the economy as It will provide women with economic opportunities in the LPG value chain, facilitating training, entrepreneurship, and financing opportunities.
The Minister encouraged men to back the initiative, saying they should be advocates for change, support the women in their lives, and promote safer cooking methods. She stressed that clean cooking is a fundamental right, not a privilege.
