Abia Unveils Clean Cooking Plan to Drive Climate Action, Public Health

Abia Unveils Clean Cooking Plan to Drive Climate Action, Public Health

The Abia State Government has unveiled the Abia State Clean Cooking Plan as part of efforts to promote sustainable living, mitigate climate change and improve public health outcomes in the state.
The plan was launched at the Aguiyi Ironsi Conference Centre, Umuahia, by the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Philemon Ogbonna, who described it as a critical step in the state’s environmental sustainability agenda.

Ogbonna said the initiative complements the state government’s ongoing investments in climate-friendly infrastructure, including the deployment of electric buses, installation of solar-powered street lights, construction of smart schools powered by renewable energy, and the establishment of the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency.

He explained that the Clean Cooking Plan would help boost wood stock, reduce deforestation and address health challenges such as eye and cardiovascular diseases linked to the use of firewood for cooking. According to him, the production of clean cooking stoves will also create jobs and enhance the state’s carbon credit potential.

The commissioner lauded the Department of Climate Change and the International Centre for Energy, Environment and Development (ICEED) for their proactive role in developing the plan, which he said consists of 10 key components aimed at achieving its goals.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of ICEED, Dr Ewa Eleri, said Abia State was chosen for the initiative due to its resilience, favourable investment climate and the willingness of the state government to transform its environmental sector. He noted that advances in technology, education and cooking practices have made clean cooking energy increasingly beneficial.

Also contributing, 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 the South-East. He called on residents to embrace the innovation, noting that it would contribute to improved climate conditions and strengthen the state’s carbon credit profile.

The Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Mrs Uche Eme Uche, represented by Mrs Okengwu Onyinyechi, commended Governor Alex Otti for his purposeful leadership, saying the initiative reflects effective collaboration among government, the private sector and local communities.

In their remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the 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 underscores the state’s proactive response to climate change, environmental degradation and energy poverty.

They applauded the government for prioritising clean cooking solutions to reduce household air pollution, deforestation and health risks, particularly among women and children.