BY: EMMANUEL CHUKWUMA, ENUGU.
The Governor of Imo state, Hope Uzodimma, has commended the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Initiatives commitment to sustainable, cleaner energy in the Southeast geopolitical zone.
The Governor gave the commendation in Owerri, at the Southeast zonal launch of the LPG Penetration Programme and Distribution of LPG Cylinders in the state, by the Minister of State for Petroleum, Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo.
The Governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru, noted that launching the South East kick-off of the LPG Penetration Programme and distributing LPG cylinders to thousands of households, particularly women, in a bid to promote cleaner energy, a healthier environment, and safer households, deserves not only commendation but commitment of all relevant stakeholders.
“The programme aligns with Imo State’s efforts to improve the quality of life of its people and supports the national transition to cleaner energy solutions; hence, we are committed to it”, the Governor said.
He expressed appreciation to the federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and partner agencies for their commitment to the initiative.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, who flagged off the programme, stated that the initiative is a milestone in President Tinubu’s administration, aimed at eliminating respiratory diseases, protecting forests, and enhancing safety at homes, demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to global energy goals.
According to the Minister, the programme targets to transition 5 million homes to cooking gas and ensure a smoke-free environment. He informed that the launching of the programme in the South East signals the end to its zonal launching, having earlier done the same in the five other geopolitical zones of the country.
The Minister for Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, praised the president’s support and political will, stating that the programme empowers women at the grassroots and promotes sustainable income, while enabling the government to reach its developmental goals.
The Imo State Commissioner for Environment, Barr. Emeka Mgbudem pledged to support the government in reducing greenhouse emissions and promoting clean cooking practices.
Partner agencies, including Decades of Gas Cooking Gas Outreach Programme, assured their commitment to ensuring the adoption of LPG usage nationwide, maintaining that they are not just providing fuel but empowering and saving the nation.
Beneficiaries, including Mrs. Faith Chukwuma, shared their experiences and appreciation for the programme.
The high point of the event was the distribution of LPG cylinders and issuance of Certificates of Participation to hundreds of women present.
The Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe and Members of Imo State Expanded Executive Council, including the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmas Iwu, and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Sir (Barr) Nnamdi Anyaehie, were present at the event.
