Ogun targets cleaner energy, empowers women with 3,500 cook stoves

In commemoration of the 2026 World Environment Day, the Ogun State Government has distributed 3,500 clean cook stoves to women across the state and disclosed its development and utilisation of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) as a sustainable waste-to-energy solution. The government stated that the stoves reduce indoor air pollution, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and offer […]

In commemoration of the 2026 World Environment Day, the Ogun State Government has distributed 3,500 clean cook stoves to women across the state and disclosed its development and utilisation of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) as a sustainable waste-to-energy solution.

The government stated that the stoves reduce indoor air pollution, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and offer safer, healthier, and more sustainable cooking options, thereby improving the well-being of women and children.

The clean cook stoves were provided through collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Ogun State Government.

Speaking at the celebration themed: “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” held in Abeokuta on Tuesday, the Director of the Department of Climate Change at the Federal Ministry of Environment, Dr Iniobong Abiola-Awe, said global climate change remains a serious concern. She argued that traditional cooking methods contribute to indoor air pollution, health risks, deforestation, and climate change.

Abiola-Awe, who was represented by Mrs. Dolapo John-Akhigbe, a principal officer in the ministry, added that the Federal Executive Council approved the National Clean Cooking Policy in 2024, and launched it at the 17th National Council on Environment. 

According to her, the policy aims to provide all Nigerian households and institutions with access to clean cooking energy by 2030.

In her welcome address, the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, described the initiative as a practical demonstration of climate resilience, public health improvement, and women’s empowerment.

Abiodun noted that millions of Nigerians still depend on firewood, charcoal, and other traditional biomass fuels for cooking. She stressed that while these fuels serve many families, they also come with significant consequences.

“Studies have consistently shown that smoke from traditional cooking methods can lead to respiratory diseases, eye problems, cardiovascular complications, and other health concerns,” she stated.

 

 

 

The First Lady also applauded the state government for embracing RDF, noting that as the state continues to industrialise, innovations such as this will help achieve effective waste management and cleaner energy generation while supporting sustainable economic growth.

 

 

 

In his keynote address, the State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya, argued that despite the progress made, challenges such as climate change, urbanisation, industrial pollution, deforestation, and ecosystem degradation still require stronger collaboration, innovation, and sustained commitment.

 

 

 

Oresanya noted that the ministry is advancing initiatives to strengthen climate governance, expand environmental data systems, improve monitoring technologies, promote sustainable industrial practices, and deepen public-private partnerships.

 

 

 

He maintained that environmental sustainability cannot be achieved by government alone and called for collaboration and collective responsibility.

 

 

 

“We have intensified climate action through tree-planting campaigns, ecosystem protection initiatives, stakeholder engagements, and strategic partnerships with national and international organisations to reduce environmental risks and build climate-resilient communities.

 

 

 

“A major component of our climate strategy is the promotion of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) as a sustainable waste-to-energy solution. RDF converts combustible municipal solid waste into alternative fuel for domestic and industrial use, thereby reducing landfill pressure, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels,” Oresanya added.

 

 

 

He, however, assured that the ministry would continue to equip young people with knowledge and skills in environmental stewardship, waste reduction, biodiversity conservation, and climate action to ensure sustainability for future generations.