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ECN seeks clean cooking solutions

The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has advocated for the adoption of clean cooking stoves by women for sustainable energy development, also to mitigate the health risks and environmental hazards posed by methods of cooking.

Its Director-General, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, stated this at a two-day gender sensitisation training workshop in Mararaba, Nasarawa State.

Mustapha noted that the workshop serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and collaborative action towards promoting the widespread adoption of clean cooking solutions tailored to the needs and realities of women who bear the brunt of air pollution from the traditional method of cooking.

He lamented that in many households, particularly in rural areas, women bear the primary responsibility for cooking using traditional methods that often pose serious health risks and environmental hazards.

Through the adoption of clean cookstoves, he said the commission aim to mitigate these challenges, improve health outcomes, reduce environmental degradation, and enhance the socio- economic well-being of women and their families.

 Furthermore, he noted that the workshop underscores  the commission’s commitment to mainstreaming gender considerations in energy policies and initiatives, recognizing that women are not only disproportionately affected by energy poverty but also possess unique knowledge, skills, and perspectives that are invaluable in shaping effective solutions.

“Together, we can pave the way for a brighter, healthier, and more equitable future, where clean cooking solutions empower women, protect the environment, and drive sustainable development for generations to come.

Also, the Director-General of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Dr. Charles Odii, noted that the adoption of innovation and technology brings about significant advancement breakthroughs in various fields.

Odii, who was represented by the Assistant Chief Enterprise Officer, SMEDAN, Mrs. Idorenyin Etim, informed that the Agency has numerous programmes targeted towards Women-led businesses.