The Lagos State Government has officially launched the world’s largest clean cooking initiative, an ambitious project that will distribute 80 million efficient cookstoves across Nigeria.
EpeInsights reports that the initiative was unveiled on Monday during a press briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.
Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, also announced the inauguration of the project’s working group.
Describing the clean cookstove initiative as a blueprint for sustainable development, Oshodi said the project aims to reduce carbon emissions, improve public health, create green jobs, and generate climate finance through compliance carbon credits.
“This isn’t just a clean energy project—it’s a comprehensive model for sustainable progress,” Oshodi said.
“We’re talking about 35 million green jobs, billions in climate finance, and tangible improvements in health, especially for women and children who suffer disproportionately from indoor air pollution.”
The project, she noted, is expected to generate 1.2 billion tonnes of compliance carbon credits under the UNFCCC’s Article 6.4 framework, positioning Nigeria as a global leader in structured climate solutions.
It also signals the launch of Africa’s first subnational carbon exchange the Lagos Carbon Exchange (LCX).
Makoko to Pilot First Phase
According to Oshodi, the first phase of the project will begin this June in Makoko, with six million clean cookstoves to be deployed free-of-charge across Lagos as the anchor and pilot state.
Beyond the stoves, the initiative includes: ₦1 billion annual green development allocations to each of Lagos’s 57 LGAs and LCDAs, five sustainable projects in 1,000 communities, monthly ₦10,000 stipends for cookstove users, renewable energy support for MSMEs and climate-smart health infrastructure.
“This reflects the THEMES+ agenda in action—it’s about investing in people, powering communities, and preparing Lagos for a resilient, inclusive future,” she added.
The initiative is backed by the Nigerian Climate Change Council and the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion under the Office of the Vice President, making it Nigeria’s flagship entry into the compliance carbon market, a shift from the less reliable voluntary carbon trading.
“The time for climate ambition is now. Nigeria is not just ready—we are leading, and we will not leave anyone behind,” Oshodi declared.
MoU with GreenPlinth Africa Signed
The State Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr. Ope George, also spoke at the event, during which a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the state government and GreenPlinth Africa, the project’s implementation partner.
“This partnership is more than a document—it’s a declaration of intent,” George said.
“We are unlocking a green future where economic growth, public health, and climate action go hand-in-hand.”
As Lagos sets the pace for clean energy innovation, the state government says it remains committed to a future that is environmentally sustainable, economically inclusive, and socially equitable.
