By Palma Ileye
Minister, Ministry of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim has advocated for access to economic opportunities for women in the country.
Speaking during the flag-off of the Benue State National Gas Expansion Programme Stakeholders Consultative Forum in Benue State, Sulaiman-Ibrahim said that cleaner and more sustainable energy was no longer an option noting that it was a necessity for survival and progress in the country.
She stated that for women particularly, it was an opportunity to break barriers, access economic opportunities, and improve their quality of life.
She said, “I am therefore truly delighted to be here today for this transformative occasion—the Flag-off of the Benue State National Gas Expansion Programme Stakeholders Consultative Forum—an event that underscores our collective drive toward sustainable energy solutions and economic empowerment.
“Today is a clear demonstration of how partnerships and purposeful governance can advance transformative solutions for our communities.
“The launch of this forum, coupled with the distribution of CNG kits and cylinders to beneficiaries and the vendor exhibitions showcasing innovation in the sector, sets the stage for a cleaner, more secure, and economically empowered future for the people of Benue State and Nigeria at large.
“The discussions on cost-efficient and cleaner energy, security, and investments at this forum could not come at a better time. Globally, the transition to cleaner energy sources is no longer a choice but a necessity.”
According to her, the World Health Organization, WHO, estimate that over 98,000 Nigerian women die annually from the use of firewood saying that, “If a woman cooks breakfast, lunch and dinner, it is equivalent to smoking between three and 20 packets of cigarettes a day, exposing her to severe respiratory and cardiovascular health risks.”
She explained that in Nigeria, where women and children disproportionately bear the brunt of energy poverty, this shift therefore holds the promise of significantly improving lives.
She stated that cleaner energy like CNG was not just about reducing emissions; it was about reducing household energy costs, enhancing health outcomes, and creating new economic opportunities.
“As Minister of Women Affairs, my focus has always been on advocating for solutions that uplift women, children, and vulnerable groups. I see the potential of this initiative to empower women entrepreneurs, particularly in rural areas, by providing them with access to affordable and sustainable energy solutions.
“Cleaner energy means more opportunities for small businesses to thrive, safer environments for our children, and the reduction of harmful pollutants that affect families daily.
“I am also deeply encouraged by the innovative strides being showcased through the vendor exhibitions today. Innovation is key to unlocking the potential of the gas sector and ensuring it benefits all citizens equitably,” she further explained.
She urged the stakeholders to ensure that the solutions and opportunities presented were inclusive, targeting both men and women as active participants in driving the sector forward.
She added, “As we continue to invest in and expand the gas sector, let us not lose sight of the need for intentional policies that ensure inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and economic viability. This includes prioritizing access for women, youth, and vulnerable populations, and ensuring that the benefits of cleaner energy reach every corner of our society.”
She thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to driving sustainable development, fostering economic empowerment, and championing initiatives that prioritize the well-being of all Nigerians, particularly women and children.
She assured that the Ministry of Women Affairs was committed to ensuring that women and children were at the forefront of these initiatives.
Furthermore, the Minister congratulated Dr. Hyacinth Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State and the entire Benue State team for the great initiative.
