Bayo Muhammad Alabira, Dutse
A total of 120 beneficiaries from Dutse, Ringim, and Kirikassamma local government areas of Jigawa State, are now producing artificial cooking charcoal made from the agricultural waste across the six production centres.
The eco-friendly charcoal, processed from waste materials collected from dustbins, is already receiving strong patronage from residents across the state.
The initiative transforms what was once waste into wealth, creating both income and cleaner energy alternatives for households.
Speaking during the launch of the new product in Baranda village, Dutse Local Government Area of the state, the Executive Director of ELIP-Initiative and Project Manager of the Waste to Wealth Project in the state, Comrade Isah Mustapha, said the scheme has the potential to create jobs for thousands of youths across Jigawa state.
He noted that once the project expands to all the 27 local government areas in the state, its employment impact will be felt across and even greater.
According to him, the project has a complete value chain covering from sourcing of materials, production, packaging, and commercialisation.
Comrade Isah Mustapha explained that the project also includes fabrication centres that produce clean clay stoves designed to deliver clean energy for livelihood.
He further stressed that with Jigawa State being 90% affected by desert and desertification, the only way to curb the menace of tree felling is to provide alternatives that reduce dependence on charcoal made from wood.
He therefore stressed that artificial charcoal offers a sustainable solution to protect the environment while empowering local communities.
