FG and Imo State Launch South East LPG Drive to End Domestic Energy Poverty

The Federal Government, in partnership with the Imo State Government, has officially launched the South East Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Penetration Programme in Owerri, aiming to accelerate Nigeria’s shift to cleaner, safer cooking fuels.

The launch marks the completion of the programme’s rollout across all five geopolitical zones, under the national “Decade of Gas” agenda, designed to reduce household reliance on firewood, kerosene, and charcoal.

Nationwide Clean Cooking Initiative

Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), highlighted the programme’s ambitious targets: distributing five million LPG cylinders by 2030, converting one million homes annually, and expanding domestic LPG supply to six million metric tonnes per year. The initiative is expected to generate significant employment opportunities across the region.

Governor Hope Uzodimma, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Chinyere Ekomaru, pledged the South East zone’s full support, assuring security for all programme assets. Ekpo commended the governor for mobilising state officials to ensure successful implementation.

“Beneficiaries should see these cylinders as instruments of empowerment in the fight against domestic energy poverty,” Ekpo said, announcing plans for the large-scale distribution of 30,000 cylinders per state beginning early next year.

Health, Environmental, and Economic Benefits

Multiple speakers emphasized the transformative impact of clean cooking. Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, noted that LPG access enhances women’s health, saves time, and provides economic opportunities, while dramatically reducing respiratory illnesses linked to traditional cooking methods.

Imo State Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Gas Development, Barrister Emeka Mgbudem, highlighted the programme’s environmental benefits, including forest preservation, improved air quality, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. “The future begins in the kitchen,” he said, promoting the motto: “No Smoke. No Tears. Cook Clean. Live Healthy.”

Capacity Building and Training

On the launch day, beneficiaries received practical training on the safe use of LPG for cooking, ensuring communities are equipped to embrace cleaner energy for a healthier, more sustainable future. Dignitaries from federal and state levels, alongside development partners, reaffirmed their commitment to the programme’s success.