WIEN and Smart Gas Limited Collaborate to Expand LPG Use in Nigeria
In a significant move towards enhancing energy accessibility and sustainability in Nigeria, the Women in Energy Network (WIEN) and Smart Gas Limited have announced a collaborative initiative aimed at expanding the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) across the country. This partnership is strategically aligned with the Nigerian government’s broader objectives of diversifying the nation’s energy mix, promoting cleaner fuels, and reducing environmental degradation.
During a press briefing on the initiative, Mrs. Eyono-Fatayi Williams, President of WIEN, emphasized the Nigerian government’s recognition of the critical need to diversify its energy sources to ensure long-term economic stability. She highlighted that the promotion of LPG as an alternative to traditional fuels such as firewood and coal directly supports the Federal Government’s National Gas Expansion Program (NGEP), which aims to increase domestic LPG consumption and reduce reliance on kerosene and other polluting fuels.
“LPG is not only a cleaner and more sustainable energy source, but it also offers significant economic benefits,” Mrs. Williams stated. “It reduces household energy expenses in the long run and helps the country cut down on fuel importation costs. By increasing the use of LPG, especially from local sources like the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) and other fractionation plants like NEDOGAS, we are strengthening our economy by keeping energy-related funds within Nigeria.”
The health benefits of transitioning to LPG were also underscored, with Mrs. Williams noting that household air pollution from firewood and coal is a leading cause of respiratory diseases in Nigeria, particularly among women and children. “The shift to LPG is directly contributing to the national health agenda by reducing respiratory illnesses and lowering healthcare costs,” she said.
In terms of environmental sustainability, Mrs. Williams pointed out that LPG, being a cleaner fuel, plays a crucial role in reducing environmental degradation. “As more households transition to LPG, we can significantly minimize deforestation caused by firewood collection, soil erosion, and harmful emissions. This aligns with Nigeria’s commitments to combating climate change and preserving its ecosystems.”
The President of WIEN also highlighted the time-saving and productivity-boosting aspects of LPG adoption. “The switch to LPG not only saves costs but also saves time, particularly for rural women who spend hours collecting firewood. By making LPG widely available, we are empowering households with more efficient cooking methods, allowing women and families to redirect their time to education, income-generating activities, and other productive endeavors,” she added.
Mrs. Williams further stated that the LPG initiative would significantly contribute to economic diversification by creating a new value chain for LPG distribution and services. This would stimulate local economies and create jobs, supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to boost non-oil sectors of the economy. Additionally, the initiative aligns with the government’s vision of ensuring equitable energy access for all Nigerians, including underserved and rural communities.
Safety, as a top priority in Nigeria’s energy policies, was also emphasized. “LPG is not only cleaner but also safer than traditional cooking methods when properly handled. Through this partnership, we aim to raise awareness about the proper use and safety of LPG, aligning with the government’s push for higher safety standards and regulations in energy use to protect citizens from accidents and hazards,” Mrs. Williams stated.
The partnership between WIEN and Smart Gas Limited is seen as a strategic fit with Nigeria’s national development goals. “We believe that as mothers and home managers, we are uniquely positioned to play effective roles in the ongoing efforts to displace dirty fuels from Nigerian homes and improve the environment for the health and wellbeing of our children,” Mrs. Williams concluded.
Dr. Yinka Opeke, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Smart Gas Limited, also spoke at the briefing, reinforcing the points made by Mrs. Williams. She explained that Smart Gas operates in the midstream and downstream sectors of the gas industry, with a strong focus on LPG, commonly known as cooking gas. The company is involved in cooking gas logistics, supplying hotels, bars, restaurants, and homes, and also offers cylinders of various sizes for retail.
“Smart Gas has developed a mobile app, similar to Uber, that allows people to order gas from the comfort of their homes. We have a presence in all 36 states of Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory, making supplies easily accessible through our app,” Dr. Opeke explained.
She also highlighted the company’s grassroots initiative, “Trash for Gas,” which targets communities that have yet to transition from firewood, kerosene, and charcoal to LPG. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of moving people from energy poverty to the domestic utilization of cleaner fuels. “We are partnering with local governments and the Decade of Gas Office to fund cylinders for distribution and enhance advocacy efforts in communities across the nation,” Dr. Opeke said.
As part of its advocacy efforts, Smart Gas has already distributed cylinders to encourage LPG usage among Nigerians. This collaboration between WIEN and Smart Gas Limited represents a crucial step in supporting Nigeria’s energy transition, creating jobs, improving lives, and protecting the environment.
Source: WIEN
