By Chesa Chesa
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has launched its Sustainable Empowerment Programme in Kano State, providing over 2,000 households with clean and reliable energy solutions aimed at reducing climate change impacts and improving livelihoods.
The initiative, held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Fabs Event Centre in Kano, brought together beneficiaries from rural and semi-urban communities who received NASENI Clean Cookstoves, Home Solar Systems, and other energy-efficient technologies designed to improve household energy access while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and biomass.
Flagging off the programme, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, described the intervention as a clear example of how government policy is being translated into tangible benefits for citizens.
She commended NASENI’s leadership for its commitment to Nigerian enterprise development, industrial productivity, and the implementation of the “Nigeria First” policy, noting that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to her, the programme supports key national priorities including industrialisation, job creation, local productivity, and inclusive economic growth.
“Kano’s selection as host for this programme is particularly significant. Historically, Kano has been one of West Africa’s major commercial and manufacturing hubs, with deep strengths in trade, textiles, agro-processing, and enterprise,” she said.
Dr. Oduwole further stated that the initiative aligns with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by promoting local technology deployment and expanding productive assets for households and small businesses.
She also commended NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, for his efforts in advancing indigenous innovation and strengthening domestic industrial capacity.
“Thank you for your commitment to advancing indigenous innovation, strengthening domestic industrial capacity and positioning Nigerian-made solutions as competitive drivers of sustainable trade expansion and national prosperity,” she said.
In his welcome address, Halilu said the empowerment programme reflects NASENI’s mission to deliver practical, locally developed solutions tailored to Nigerian needs.
He explained that the clean cookstoves reduce smoke emissions and fuel consumption, while the solar home systems provide reliable electricity for households and small enterprises.
