Clean energy: NASENI distributes cooking stoves, solar systems to 2,000 Kano households

By Salisu Hamisu Ali —

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The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, NASENI, has launched a Sustainable Empowerment Programme in Kano State aimed at reducing poverty and improving livelihoods through clean and renewable energy solutions.

Speaking at the launch of the programme in Kano on Tuesday, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Khalil Halilu, said the initiative involved the distribution of smokeless cooking stoves and solar home systems to 2,000 beneficiaries across the state.

He said the programme would boost economic activities and empower households by providing access to cleaner and more reliable energy sources.

Mr Halilu explained that the initiative was designed to reduce dependence on traditional cooking methods, minimise health risks associated with smoke inhalation, and improve energy access for underserved communities.

According to him, the programme reflects NASENI’s commitment to deploying practical and locally made solutions to address challenges faced by Nigerians.

He added that the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader environmental goals under the Zero Emission Carbon, ZECO, project, which seeks to reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner energy alternatives.

“It is always good to be back home, and today is about you, your homes, your f amilies, and your daily life,” he said.

“We are bringing clean cooking stoves to reduce smoke and save fuel, as well as solar home systems that provide reliable electricity.

“About 2,000 beneficiaries were selected for the initial phase in Kano. These are practical solutions that can immediately improve daily living.

“What you are receiving today is not just support; it is part of a larger national effort to build a cleaner and healthier Nigeria,” he added.

Mr Halilu noted that the Kano rollout marked the beginning of a nationwide intervention.

“This is just the beginning. We are flagging off the programme here in Kano, but it will be extended to other states across the country,” he said.

Also speaking, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, described the initiative as a practical demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to economic development and industrialisation.

“This programme directly supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in areas of industrialisation, job creation, and inclusive economic growth,” she said.

Mrs Oduwole stated that the initiative also aligns with the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First” policy, which prioritises local production, indigenous innovation, and domestic enterprise.

“Nigeria First means producing more of what we consume and strengthening local industries,” she said.

“NASENI’s intervention shows how local technology can be deployed to improve productivity and support small businesses.”

She stressed the importance of energy access in driving economic activities, noting that unreliable electricity supply remains a major challenge for households and businesses.

“Clean and decentralised energy solutions are not just about the environment; they are critical economic infrastructure,” the minister added.