ABEOKUTA – The Federal Government, in partnership with the Ogun State Government, has distributed 3,500 clean cooking stoves and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders to women across Ogun State as part of efforts to mitigate climate change, improve public health and promote environmental sustainability.

The distribution took place at the Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, during the 2026 World Environment Day celebration themed “Inspired by Nature for Climate and Our Future.”

Speaking at the event, the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, described the initiative as a practical demonstration of the government’s commitment to climate resilience, environmental protection and the well-being of citizens.

She said the state government would continue to embrace innovative solutions such as Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) technology to enhance waste management and support cleaner energy generation for sustainable economic growth.

According to her, large volumes of combustible waste at dumpsites contribute significantly to environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, stressing that such waste can be converted into alternative fuel for industrial and energy purposes.

Also speaking, the Director of the Department of Climate Change at the Federal Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Iniobong Abiola-Awe, identified climate change as one of the most pressing global challenges, noting that traditional cooking methods contribute to indoor air pollution, deforestation, health hazards and environmental degradation.

Represented by Mrs. Dolapo John-Akhigbe, a Principal Officer in the ministry, Abiola-Awe said the clean cooking stoves would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve indoor air quality and provide safer and healthier cooking alternatives for households.

She disclosed that the Federal Executive Council approved the National Clean Cooking Policy in 2024, adding that the policy was launched during the 17th National Council on Environment to ensure universal access to clean cooking energy in Nigeria by 2030.

In his goodwill message, Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Olanrewaju Saka, described the theme of the celebration as timely and relevant, urging Nigerians to adopt sustainable lifestyles and practices that would secure a healthier environment for future generations.

Saka also encouraged the Ministry of Environment to sustain initiatives aimed at promoting environmental sustainability, stressing that the future of the state depends on the commitment and professionalism of its workforce.

Delivering the keynote address, Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya, said environmental challenges such as deforestation, land degradation, climate change, urbanisation, industrial pollution and ecosystem loss require stronger collaboration and sustained action from all stakeholders.

He noted that the ministry was strengthening climate governance through improved environmental data systems, monitoring mechanisms, sustainable industrial practices and enhanced Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).

Oresanya highlighted the importance of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) as a major component of the state’s climate strategy, explaining that the technology converts combustible municipal waste into alternative fuel, thereby reducing landfill pressure, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

The commissioner further assured that the ministry would continue to support and empower young people with the knowledge and skills needed for climate action, biodiversity conservation, environmental stewardship and waste reduction.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Kafayat Lawal, commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for his support and called for collective efforts to protect the ecosystem, promote sustainable practices and strengthen climate resilience.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), Abeokuta Chapter, Alhaji Jamiu Adebayo, described nature as humanity’s greatest ally in the fight against climate change.

He warned that increasing environmental degradation, biodiversity loss and extreme weather conditions continue to threaten global sustainability, urging individuals, organisations and communities to embrace environmentally responsible practices and support climate action initiatives.

The event formed part of activities commemorating the 2026 World Environment Day and underscored the commitment of both the federal and state governments to advancing clean energy adoption and environmental sustainability in Nigeria.