FENRAD describes Abia Clean Cooking launch as timely, people-centred initiative

Nkem Ukaegbu, Umuahia

Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy & Development (FENRAD) has commended Abia State Government on the official launch of the Abia State Clean Cooking Plan, describing it as a landmark policy initiative that reflects visionary leadership, environmental responsibility, and a strong commitment to public health and sustainable development.

FENRAD particularly commended the Abia State Ministry of Environment, with special recognition to the Department of Climate Change, for providing strategic leadership and effective coordination in the development of the Plan.

According to the Executive Director of the organization, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, the effort underscores Abia State’s proactive response to climate change, environmental degradation, and energy poverty, while promoting climate-resilient and low-emission development pathways.

The organization applauded the Abia State Government for prioritizing clean cooking solutions as a critical intervention to reduce household air pollution, curb deforestation, and address the disproportionate health impacts associated with traditional cooking methods, especially on women and children.

FENRAD noted that the Clean Cooking Plan represents a bold and timely policy instrument that aligns with Nigeria’s national development priorities and international climate and sustainable development commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The organization also acknowledged the vital technical and institutional support provided by the International Centre for Energy, Environment and Development (ICEED) in the development of the Plan.

FENRAD stated that ICEED’s partnership ensured that the framework is evidence-based, inclusive, and responsive to local realities, while remaining fully aligned with the policy direction of the Federal Ministry of Environment and Nigeria’s National Clean Cooking Plan.

This alignment, FENRAD emphasized, strengthens policy coherence and enhances the prospects for effective and sustainable implementation.

Furthermore, FENRAD commended the inclusive, multi-stakeholder approach adopted by the Abia State Government and the Ministry of Environment, noting that it reflects a clear understanding that clean cooking is not merely an energy issue but a cross-cutting development priority that advances public health, gender equity, environmental protection, climate mitigation, and economic empowerment.

As a civil society organization committed to environmental rights, climate justice, and sustainable livelihoods, FENRAD reaffirmed its readiness to support the Abia State Ministry of Environment and its Department of Climate Change in the implementation of the Clean Cooking Plan through community engagement, advocacy, policy monitoring, and strategic partnerships. The organization stressed that sustained political commitment, adequate financing, and strong institutional collaboration will be essential to translating the Plan into tangible benefits for households across both urban and rural communities in Abia State

FENRAD expressed confidence that the successful implementation of the Abia State Clean Cooking Plan will significantly improve public health outcomes, reduce environmental degradation, strengthen climate resilience, and contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for the people of Abia State.