The Abia State Government has launched the Abia State Clean Cooking Plan, a major initiative aimed at promoting sustainable living, reducing environmental degradation and improving public health across the state.
The plan was unveiled at the Aguiyi Ironsi Conference Centre, Umuahia, by the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Philemon Ogbonna, who said the initiative aligns with the state’s broader commitment to climate-friendly policies and sustainable development.
Ogbonna noted that the state has made significant investments in green initiatives, including the deployment of electric buses, installation of millions of solar-powered street lights, construction of smart schools powered by solar energy, and the establishment of the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency.
According to him, the Clean Cooking Plan is another strategic intervention designed to increase wood stock, curb deforestation and reduce eye and cardiovascular diseases associated with the use of firewood for cooking. He added that the manufacturing of clean cooking stoves would create employment opportunities and improve the state’s carbon credit profile.
The commissioner commended the Department of Climate Change and the management of the International Centre for Energy, Environment and Development (ICEED) for developing the plan, which he said comprises 10 key components tailored to achieving its core objectives and principles.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of ICEED, Dr Ewa Eleri, said the initiative was introduced to Abia State due to its resilience, investor-friendly environment and the state government’s readiness to transform its environmental landscape.
He stressed that advancements in technology, education and cooking practices underscore the immense benefits of clean cooking energy.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr Monday Ikechukwu, represented by Mr Boniface Ijeoma, described the initiative as the first of its kind in South Eastern Nigeria. He urged residents to embrace the innovation, noting that it would foster favourable climate outcomes and enhance the state’s carbon credit standing.
The Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Mrs Uche Eme Uche, represented by Mrs Okengwu Onyinyechi, praised Governor Alex Otti for providing purposeful leadership. She said the initiative reflects unity and good stewardship through collaboration between government, the private sector and communities.
In their separate remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr Ikechukwu Oriuwa, and the State Executive Director of the Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development Nigeria, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, said the initiative demonstrates Abia State’s proactive response to climate change, environmental degradation and energy poverty.
They applauded the government for prioritising clean cooking solutions to address household air pollution, deforestation and the disproportionate health impacts on women and children.
