Favour Ishember, Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has partnered with IHS Nigeria to introduce Project Breathe Clean Air–Abuja, a program targeting the reduction of air pollution-related illnesses and fatalities, as well as mitigating the environmental effects of firewood cooking in the FCT.
The initiative involves distributing cooking gas cylinders and refill vouchers to disadvantaged households, promoting a transition from traditional firewood and charcoal to cleaner, safer cooking alternatives.
Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, stated that the project aims to enhance public health and environmental sustainability.
The FCTA and IHS Nigeria are working together to implement this initiative, which is expected to have a positive impact on the health and well-being of residents, particularly those in disadvantaged communities.
According to her, “Health and environment are equals. Every household that moves away from firewood significantly reduces air pollution and helps preserve our trees and green spaces.”
She noted that the project includes awareness campaigns to educate residents on the link between air quality and health, stressing that indoor smoke remains a major trigger for respiratory diseases across the territory.
Permanent Secretary of the Secretariat, Dr. Babagana Adam, described the initiative as inclusive, with a focus on underserved communities.
He said, “Traditional reliance on firewood contributes heavily to deforestation and environmental degradation. This project offers a cleaner alternative that protects both the people and the environment in the long term.”
On his part, Executive Vice President, CEO and Co-Founder of IHS Nigeria, Mohamad Darwish, said the partnership seeks to help “5,000 mothers breathe fresh air” by encouraging cleaner cooking practices that reduce exposure to harmful smoke.
Medical experts at the event also highlighted the health consequences of prolonged exposure to smoke from biomass fuels. Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist at the National Hospital Abuja, Dr. Hannatu Ayuba Usman, said the initiative targets avoidable health conditions.
“Managing lung cancer and other pollution-related diseases is physically and financially draining. Reducing firewood use cuts down the risk at the source,” she said.
Stakeholders at the launch noted that as more households transition to cooking gas, the pressure on surrounding ecosystems — including tree loss, soil degradation and rising temperatures — is expected to decline over time.
The FCTA said the project is part of its broader strategy to promote environmental health, reduce pollution and create safer living conditions for residents of the Federal Capital Territory in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
