BY AKUDORO GLORIA
The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim has said that based on World Health Organisation (WHO) statistical report over 98,000 Nigerian women die annually from the use of firewood.
The Minister stated this during the flag-off of the Benue State National Gas Expansion Programme Stakeholders Consultative Forum, a groundbreaking event initiated by the State Governor, Dr. Hyacinth Alia.
The transformative initiative saw the distribution of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) kits and cylinders to beneficiaries as well as vendor exhibitions showcasing innovation in the sector.
The Minister explained that if a woman cooks breakfast, lunch and dinner, it is equivalent to smoking between three and 20 packets of cigarettes a day, exposing her to severe respiratory and cardiovascular health risks.
While applauding Governor Alia for his visionary leadership, Sulaiman-Ibrahim also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering commitment to driving sustainable development, fostering economic empowerment, and championing initiatives that prioritize the well-being of all Nigerians, particularly women and children.
She said: “The transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy is no longer an option, but a necessity for our survival and progress. For women particularly, it is an opportunity to break barriers, access economic opportunities, and improve their quality of life.
“The discussions on cost-efficient and cleaner energy, security, and investments at this forum could not come at a better time. It underscores our collective drive toward sustainable energy solutions and economic empowerment.
“In Nigeria, where women and children disproportionately bear the brunt of energy poverty, this shift therefore holds the promise of significantly improving lives. Cleaner energy like CNG is not just about reducing emissions; it is about reducing household energy costs, enhancing health outcomes, and creating new economic opportunities.
“As Minister of Women Affairs, my focus has always been on advocating for solutions that uplift women, children, and vulnerable groups. I see the potential of this initiative to empower women entrepreneurs, particularly in rural areas, by providing them with access to affordable and sustainable energy solutions.”
Encouraged by the innovative strides being showcased through the vendor exhibitions, the Minister affirmed that innovation is key to unlocking the potential of the gas sector and ensuring it benefits all citizens equitably.
She added that cleaner energy means more opportunities for small businesses to thrive, safer environments for our children, and the reduction of harmful pollutants that affect families daily.
She therefore urged the stakeholders present at the groundbreaking event to ensure that the solutions and opportunities presented are inclusive, targeting both men and women as active participants in driving the sector forward.