Nigeria To Rebase The Use Of Lamps, Phase Out Candles, Kerosene Lamps!

Minister of Environment Mrs L Mallam

Haven successfully rebased Nigerian economy and climbed higher up the hierarchy to the 26th position on the committee of wealthy nations in the world and the first in Africa, Nigeria wants to follow that achievement with phasing out the use of lamps and kerosene in ''most homes'' come 2015.

In her words, the minister of Environment, Mrs Laurentia Mallam said ''the Federal Government will replace the use of domestic candles and kerosene lanterns in most homes next year with clean solar energy lamps''. The Minister disclosed this in Abuja when senior officials of the Total Group paid her a courtesy visit.

She said that the old household beams would be replaced in 12 months with clean solar energy lamps that are more environmental and ozone- friendly. Mallam said solar lamps offer a credible solution to clean and renewable energy that are favourable to global requirements for positive actions against climate change.

The minister noted that the candles and lamp phase out process would not come by way of legislation but through the introduction of a superior product. She assured that the new solar energy lamp technology would be distributed by the Total Group at affordable prices, especially to the rural poor.

The minister expressed concerns over environmental hazards and avoidable deaths from fire outbreaks by the use of candles and kerosene lanterns. She explained that the switch would slash the price of kerosene and possibly eliminate the use of candles, making Nigeria more ozone-friendly.

The minister said collaboration with other ministries including Trade and Investment, Finance, Health and Education would ensure success of the solar initiative. An extract from thenationonlineng.net.