The federal government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to distribute four million ECOCA solar electric cookstove units to households across Nigeria.
Gatekeepers News reports that the initiative will be implemented under the Green Economy Empowerment 774 (GEE774) programme of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. It is designed to expand access to clean cooking solutions, reduce indoor air pollution, advance Nigeria’s climate goals, and promote gender equality and economic inclusion.
The MoU was signed by Nko Asanye Esuabana, permanent secretary of the ministry, on behalf of Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, in partnership with Clean Sustainable Renewable Solutions Limited (CSR Solutions).
Under the agreement, four million ECOCA solar cookstoves will be distributed nationwide, with 5,000 units allocated to each of the 774 local government areas (LGAs).
Tackling Indoor Air Pollution
According to the ministry, indoor air pollution causes an estimated 95,000 deaths annually in Nigeria, disproportionately affecting women and children due to prolonged exposure to smoke from traditional cooking fuels such as firewood and charcoal.
It said the rollout of the solar cookstoves would significantly cut harmful emissions in homes, improve respiratory health outcomes, and enhance overall household wellbeing.
Beyond health gains, the ministry noted that the programme would reduce the time and physical strain associated with traditional cooking methods, enabling women to dedicate more time to education, entrepreneurship, and other productive pursuits.
Climate and Economic Impact
Each ECOCA unit is projected to offset approximately 4.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, contributing to Nigeria’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.
The ministry added that the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s nationally determined contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement and supports efforts to combat deforestation, environmental degradation, and energy poverty.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim said the clean cooking programme demonstrates the government’s commitment to linking environmental sustainability with women’s empowerment and inclusive economic growth.
“As we commit to clean cooking and zero emissions today, we promise a healthier, cleaner and more equitable future for our women, children and communities,” the minister said.
The programme, implemented under the GEE774 women economy and carbon incentives initiative, is expected to deliver sustainable development outcomes across all LGAs.
Each cookstove unit will come equipped with three LED lights to boost energy access, two stainless steel pots, two USB charging ports, and a monitoring, reporting and verification (MRV) system to track carbon offsets.
The ministry also disclosed that pilot projects will be launched in selected states as part of broader efforts to scale up clean energy adoption and deepen collaboration among stakeholders to empower women and drive long-term climate and development benefits.
