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NASENI Rolls Out Sustainable Empowerment Programme in Kano
NASENI launched its Sustainable Empowerment Programme in Kano State with over 2000 households benefiting
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has launched its Sustainable Empowerment Programme in Kano State. This initiative delivers clean and reliable energy solutions to more than 2,000 households as part of efforts to mitigate climate change and improve livelihoods.
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The programme, held in Kano, saw beneficiaries receive NASENI Clean Cookstoves, Home Solar Systems, and other productivity-enhancing tools. These solutions are specifically targeted at rural and semi-urban communities.
Federal Government Links Programme to Renewed Hope Agenda
Flagging off the initiative, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, described the programme as a practical example of how Nigeria’s industrial, trade, and investment policies are being translated into real benefits for citizens.
She said the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Specifically, it advances industrialisation, job creation, local productivity, and inclusive economic growth.
Why Kano Matters
According to the minister, Kano’s selection is strategic. The city has historically served as one of West Africa’s major commercial and manufacturing hubs. It has strong roots in trade, textiles, agro-processing, and enterprise development.
She noted that the programme supports Nigeria’s “Nigeria First” policy by promoting indigenous innovation and strengthening domestic industrial capacity.
Boosting AfCFTA and Local Technology Deployment
The minister added that NASENI’s intervention directly supports the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by localising technology deployment and expanding access to productive assets for Nigerian households and small businesses.
She commended NASENI’s leadership for positioning Nigerian-made solutions as competitive drivers of sustainable trade and national prosperity.
NASENI’s Zero Carbon Vision
In his welcome remarks, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, said the initiative is designed to empower households with cleaner cooking solutions that reduce smoke and fuel consumption, as well as solar home systems that provide reliable electricity.
“These are Nigerian-made solutions, built for Nigerian realities,” he said.
According to him, programme is part of NASENI’s broader Zero Carbon (ZeCo) Project, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions, protecting the environment, and promoting safer energy alternatives.
Empowerment Beyond Energy
Halilu emphasised that the programme goes beyond energy access to restore dignity and improve quality of life.
“This is not just empowerment. It is about giving people the tools to do more, earn more, and live better,” he said.
He urged beneficiaries to use and maintain the tools to support their homes, businesses, and future aspirations.
Strong Stakeholder Support
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Technology Transfer (PICTT), Dr. Mohammed Dahiru; the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Chris Osa Isokpunwu; the National Coordinator of AfCFTA, Mrs. Patience Okala; and Alhaji Salisu Mustapha, Permanent Secretary, who represented the Head of Service of the Kano State Government.
