The North-East Arid Zone Development Programme (NEAZDP) has successfully distributed 6kg gas cylinders to 100 women entrepreneurs operating small businesses across nine local government areas in the northern part of Yobe State. This initiative aims to provide a cleaner and more cost-effective cooking solution compared to firewood and charcoal.
The distribution events took place at designated centres in Gashu’a, Geidam, and Nguru, drawing the participation of important stakeholders from the regions that will benefit from the program.
Dr. Mulima Idi Mato, the NEAZDP Programme Manager, stated during the event that this intervention is specifically designed for small-scale business operators who depend on conventional cooking methods that contribute to deforestation. He identified beneficiaries as tea and noodle vendors, soybean curd (awara) sellers, and other small traders, many of whom expressed their gratitude for the assistance.
Dr. Mato further explained that transitioning to gas-powered cooking would not only reduce their business expenses in the long run but also enhance efficiency and cleanliness in their operations.
According to NEAZDP, the programme is part of a broader strategy to encourage the adoption of clean and energy-efficient cooking alternatives to firewood and charcoal, which remain the primary cooking fuels in numerous rural and semi-urban communities.
Dr. Mato highlighted that the extensive reliance on traditional fuels has significantly contributed to the degradation of forest resources and exacerbated desertification in Yobe State and the broader North-East region.
"This campaign is intended to lessen the strain on our forest resources, which are constantly under severe threat from excessive tree felling. By introducing cleaner energy solutions, we are not only safeguarding the environment but also improving the socio-economic conditions of our people," he remarked.
Each of the 100 recipients was equipped with a 6kg gas cylinder and received a voucher to cover the cost of their initial gas refill.
In his address, the Emir of Bade, HRH Alhaji Abubakar Umar Suleiman, lauded NEAZDP and expressed appreciation for Governor Mai Mala Buni's sustained commitment to environmental sustainability.
He acknowledged the Governor's support for NEAZDP and other relevant organizations in promoting collaborative efforts aimed at improving biodiversity and restoring ecosystems.
The Emir also appealed to community members to cease the indiscriminate felling of trees and instead focus on planting trees that provide nutritional and economic benefits.
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