By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Government has officially commenced the distribution of eight million clean cookstoves, launching the initiative with an initial handover to 12 households in the riverine community of Makoko.
Speaking at the flag-off event on Monday, the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr Ope George, described the programme as a “transformative movement” that integrates public health, climate action, and social equity.
“This is not merely a stove handout. It is a long-overdue intervention to combat the silent dangers of indoor air pollution, prevent deforestation, and support the most vulnerable communities facing energy poverty,” George stated.
He explained that the initiative is part of the wider national target to distribute 80 million improved cookstoves under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), with Lagos receiving eight million units.
“Our choice to start with Makoko is deliberate. It reflects our commitment to begin with communities most affected by climate vulnerability. These residents will serve as the first advocates for sustainable change,” he said.
George credited the success of the launch to collaboration with the Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy, led by Mrs Titilayo Oshodi, and the technical support provided by GreenPlinth Africa Ltd., which helped move the project from policy to practical action.
“At the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, we understand that energy poverty remains a major barrier to inclusive development. Shifting from firewood and charcoal to clean cookstoves is essential both for public health and environmental protection,” he added.
He encouraged support from the private sector, donor agencies, and local stakeholders to help scale up the programme, noting that “investing in clean energy is investing in the well-being and future of our children.”
In her address, Mrs Titilayo Oshodi described the distribution as a “historic milestone,” marking the first formal implementation of the nationwide Clean Cookstove Initiative, which began in 2023 with data gathering and community needs assessments.
“Lagos is taking the lead. This pilot phase, involving 12 beneficiaries out of 100 identified households, will provide critical insights for wider distribution strategies across the state,” she explained.
Officials reiterated that the cookstove programme aligns with the THEMES+ agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, which prioritises a smart, inclusive, and environmentally resilient Lagos that addresses the disparity between urban centres and marginalised communities.
The clean cookstoves, engineered to reduce carbon emissions and indoor air pollution, are expected to lower health risks, particularly for women and children, while boosting energy efficiency and promoting climate-friendly practices across the state.