The Kaduna State Government, on Friday, distributed 100 clean cookstoves to women and persons with disabilities as part of activities marking the 2026 World Environment Day.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Linda Yakubu, said the initiative was aimed at promoting clean energy, reducing pressure on forests and improving public health.

Ms Yakubu said the theme of the 2026 World Environment Day is “Inspired by Nature: For Climate, For Our Future” underscored the need for nature-based solutions to environmental challenges.

She noted that climate change continued to manifest through rising temperatures, biodiversity loss, land degradation and flooding.

According to her, governments, institutions, communities and individuals must work together to protect the environment for present and future generations.

“The distribution of 100 clean cookstoves highlights the importance of transitioning to cleaner and more efficient energy sources while contributing to climate change mitigation efforts,” she said.

Ms Yakubu urged stakeholders to translate commitments on environmental sustainability into concrete actions.

She added that government alone could not achieve sustainable environmental management without the support of communities, development partners, civil society organisations and the private sector.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Abubakar Buba, said Kaduna was making steady progress in renewable energy deployment.

He said all 255 primary healthcare centres in the state had been equipped with solar power systems to guarantee a reliable electricity supply for healthcare services.

Mr Buba attributed the achievement to the commitment of Governor Uba Sani’s administration to expanding access to renewable energy.

He also said all the 23 local government areas had received support to procure and install solar-powered streetlights.

According to him, the initiative is reducing dependence on fossil fuels while improving public infrastructure and security.

The commissioner further disclosed that the state government was engaging local and international partners on waste-to-wealth projects aimed at converting waste into electricity, organic fertilisers and other reusable products.

He said the projects would help reduce pollution, create jobs and support sustainable agriculture.

World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5 to promote environmental awareness and action globally. 

(NAN)