Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia has said the Clean Cook Stoves Initiative is aimed at promoting environmental sustainability as well as economic empowerment among Benue people especially those living in the rural areas.
The Governor made this known Monday while inaugurating the initiative’s implementation committee at Government House Makurdi.
Speaking during the event, the Governor said it marked a significant step in the state’s efforts to promote clean energy alternatives and reduce environmental degradation.
Governor Alia, who was represented by his Deputy, Barr Sam Ode, described the initiative as a strategic intervention aimed at improving the wellbeing of Benue people, particularly women, who are often the most affected by the health risks associated with traditional cooking methods.
According to the Governor, “This initiative marks the beginning of Benue State’s journey towards greater prosperity and improved wellbeing for our people,”
The Governor explained that the inauguration of the implementation committee became necessary in order to ensure effective coordination of the project.
He urged members of the committee to approach the assignment with diligence and commitment towards successful implementation of the initiative.
Responding on behalf of the committee members, the Commissioner for Lands, Survey and Solid Minerals, Dr. Frederick Ikyaan, expressed appreciation to the Governor for the confidence reposed in them and assured that the committee would work assiduously to deliver on its mandate.
The committee is Chaired by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode, while the Director-General of the Benue State Bureau for Climate Change, Dr. Aondofa Mailumo, will serve as Secretary.
The committee will oversee the distribution of clean cook stoves to women while also driving the planting of one million economic trees across the state as part of efforts to strengthen environmental conservation and climate resilience.
