The Lagos State government launched the distribution of eight million clean cookstoves on Monday, prioritizing environmental sustainability and public health. The initiative began with 12 residents from the Makoko community receiving their units.
At the launch event, Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget Ope George described the moment as “the first spark of a transformative movement” focused on environmental sustainability, public health, and economic inclusion for vulnerable populations.
The distribution is part of a nationwide program registered under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) that will provide 80 million improved cookstoves free of charge across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Lagos received an allocation of 8 million units, reflecting both its large population and the government’s commitment to sustainable development.
“Energy poverty is a major barrier to equitable growth,” George explained. “Traditional cooking methods using firewood and charcoal endanger the health of women and children while contributing to deforestation, indoor air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Transitioning to cleaner alternatives is both an environmental imperative and a social and economic necessity.”
The decision to begin with Makoko was strategic, targeting a riverine and underserved community that faces significant energy poverty and climate vulnerability. This pilot program will inform the full-scale rollout of the remaining 8 million cookstoves across the state.
George acknowledged key partners, including the Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy, led by Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, and technical partner GreenPlinth Africa Ltd., for helping transform policy into practical impact.
He emphasized that the initial beneficiaries serve as “ambassadors” whose feedback and advocacy will shape the program’s expansion across Lagos. The initiative aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ Agenda to create a smart, green, inclusive, and economically resilient Lagos.
Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, noted that this marks the first official distribution under the national Clean Cookstove Initiative, with Lagos leading the way. The Makoko beneficiaries were selected from an initial pool of 100 households, representing the beginning of a larger rollout planned to reach thousands of households statewide.
The program represents a comprehensive approach to addressing climate change while improving public health and supporting economic inclusion across Lagos communities.
