Lagos Launches Africa’s Largest Clean Cookstove Project to Drive Climate, Economic Impact

Nigeria took a historic step toward climate leadership and economic transformation on Monday as the Lagos State Government inaugurated the 80 million Clean Cookstoves Project Working Group.

The programme, described as the world’s largest clean cooking initiative, aims to revolutionise energy access, reduce carbon emissions, and create green jobs across the country.

Launching the programme at a media briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa on Monday, the   Special Adviser to Lagos State governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Climate Change and Circular Economy Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, outlined the scope and impact of the initiative, which will see 80 million highly efficient cookstoves distributed nationwide. The project is projected to generate 1.2 billion tonnes of compliance carbon credits under the UNFCCC’s Article 6.4 framework.

“This isn’t just a clean energy project—it’s a blueprint for sustainable development,” Oshodi declared.

She added that “We’re talking about 35 million green jobs, billions in climate finance, and tangible improvements in health, especially for women and children who suffer the most from indoor pollution.”

Osodi said the first phase of the project begins this June in Makoko, with Lagos State deploying six million free cookstoves as the anchor and pilot region.

She explained that the initiative also marks the launch of Africa’s first subnational carbon exchange—the Lagos Carbon Exchange (LCX)—establishing Lagos as a trailblazer in structured, compliance-driven carbon markets.

Lagos State Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget Mr. Ope George, , speaking during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Lagos State Government and project implementation partner GreenPlinth Africa, said, “this partnership is more than a document—it’s a declaration of intent,” George said.

“We are unlocking a green future where economic growth, public health, and climate action go hand-in-hand.”

Beyond carbon offsetting, the project includes ₦1 billion annual green development allocations for each of Lagos’s 57 LGAs/LCDAs, five sustainable projects in 1,000 communities, and a host of social incentives, including monthly ₦10,000 payments for stove users, renewable energy support for MSMEs, and climate-smart health infrastructure.

“This initiative reflects the THEMES++ agenda in action. It’s about investing in people, powering communities, and preparing Lagos for the future.”

The project Is endorsed by the Nigerian Climate Change Council and the Office of the Vice President under the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion. It aims to serve as Nigeria’s flagship entry into the compliance carbon market, shifting the focus away from volatile voluntary trading.

“The time for climate ambition is now.Nigeria is not just ready—we are leading, and we will not leave anyone behind.” Osodi said.