Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has introduced Eedu Ramoni, an eco-friendly alternative energy source for domestic cooking amid rising costs of kerosene and cooking gas.
The innovative product aims to ease the burden of high fuel prices, with cooking gas now retailing at N1,350 per kilogram and kerosene priced between N1,350 and N1,500 per litre at fuel stations across Nigeria.
Unveiling Eedu Ramoni at a tree-planting event in Ijagbo, Oyun Local Government Area, AbdulRazaq emphasized its potential to transform cooking practices in both urban and rural areas.
Speaking through the state’s Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Buge, the governor highlighted how the charcoal substitute, made from organic materials such as maize, rice, and banana husks, will empower communities and reduce household costs.
The event, part of a broader initiative to plant 160,000 trees for land reclamation across Kwara’s 16 Local Governments, was organized in collaboration with the Universal Climate Initiative and the Federal Government’s Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes project.
“This initiative promises to empower our communities through the introduction of energy-saving stoves and the support of locally produced components,” the governor’s message stated.
Project lead and UCI founder, AbdulHafiz Alao, described Eedu Ramoni as a game-changer in sustainable energy.
He explained that the briquettes are made entirely from biodegradable agricultural waste, including orange peels, banana peels, corn husks, and rice husks.
“The innovative product will serve as a sustainable and cleaner alternative to traditional charcoal, which is typically made by cutting down trees,” Alao said.
He outlined the benefits, emphasizing environmental sustainability by reducing deforestation and preserving trees for industrial purposes rather than fuel.
The eco-friendly briquettes also minimize harmful smoke emissions, promoting a healthier environment.
Alao further highlighted the socio-economic impact of the initiative, noting its potential to create jobs, especially for women and youth in rural areas.
“Through collaboration with our technical consultants, we provide training on how to produce these briquettes, allowing individuals to generate income while contributing to environmental conservation. Made from readily available agricultural waste, the item is affordable, accessible, and a cost-effective fuel option, particularly for rural areas where traditional charcoal is either expensive or hard to come by,” Alao added.
The introduction of Eedu Ramoni marks a significant step towards cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions while fostering economic empowerment and environmental conservation in Kwara State.
