Nigerians, particularly those in rural areas, have been advised against reverting to firewood due to economic challenges and the recent increase in cooking gas prices.

This caution was issued by researchers and climate change advocates during a program in Abuja on Tuesday focused on “Maximizing Energy Transition Opportunities in Nigeria.”

This warning follows a rise in the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas, which increased from N1,350 to N1,500 per kilogram.

The PUNCH also noted that cooking gas prices reached as high as N1,500 per kilogram in certain retail outlets in Ogun and Lagos States as of Sunday, while the average cost for refilling a 12.5kg cylinder of cooking gas in various areas of Abuja surged by 41.6% to N17,000.

In response, Amara Nwamkpa, the Director of Partnership and Development at the Shehu Yar’Adua Foundation, acknowledged that the recent situation might compel some Nigerians to revert to using firewood for cooking.

Nwamkpa also advised Nigerians to think carefully before switching from cooking gas to firewood due to the risks associated with smoke exposure and its health effects.

The researcher emphasized that, as the global community strives for an energy transition driven by climate change, Nigerians should begin exploring renewable energy and clean cooking alternatives.

He said, “The transition to clean cooking is not an attempt to completely eliminate firewood but to reduce the exposure and inhalation of smoke in the process of its use. These are some of the things that cause respiratory diseases and 40 per cent of the pneumonia cases we are having in the country.

“There are several versions of this clean cooking (stoves) that still use firewood. The good thing about it is that it uses less wood. This involves rudimentary technology because clean cooking is all about insulation and the expertise of building these local ovens or stoves can even be done by local welders and artisans in the community.

“This is the kind of initiative that could touch the lives of the majority of Nigerians if we successfully transition from continued exposure to firewood smoke to clean cooking. It will also improve their health and quality of life, especially for people at the bottom of the pyramid. It will even ameliorate the hardship many areas facing in the country.”

Another specialist from the Africa Policy Research Initiative, Olumide Onitekun, echoed the caution that using firewood poses health risks.

Onitekun also expressed worries that persistent advocacy efforts are needed to inform grassroots Nigerians about the dangers due to the long-standing cultural norms surrounding firewood usage.

He said, “Our transition is not binary. It is a process. Nigeria has an abundance of natural gas. Health-wise, using firewood for cooking is not safe. There are a whole lot of health implications involved when humans are exposed to the emissions that come from firewood cooking.

“This is why the advocacy for clean cooking is very important. The health benefits of climate change beyond the environment cannot be overemphasised. The need to domesticate clean cooking is essential.

“We know there is a cultural barrier to this because people, especially at the grassroots have been using firewood for a long time. This is why engaging them must be targeted. I believe it is high time the government put the right policy in place to stimulate the interest of the private sector in the area of renewable energy.

“Things may be expensive, there are different forms of acquisition. For instance, I understand the pay-as-you-go model comes with its challenges. But we can’t have a solution without a challenge.”

In his earlier remarks, Patrick Okigbo, Founding Partner of Nextier Advisory Limited, highlighted that the key distinction between energy transition and fossil fuels lies in the fact that the former is motivated by climate change rather than by resource scarcity or efficiency concerns.

Okigbo also asserted his belief that Nigeria is steadily moving towards the global transition to renewable energy and anticipated a future when the country would no longer depend on crude oil from the Niger Delta.

The PUNCH

While a healthy diet and regular exercise are essential for weight loss, incorporating certain drinks into your routine can also support your goals. Here are eight drinks that can help aid in weight loss.

1. Water

• Calorie-free and hydrates the body
• Boosts metabolism and energy
• Helps control hunger and cravings

2. Green Tea

• High in antioxidants and catechins
• Enhances metabolism and fat burning
• Supports healthy digestion

3. Lemon Water

• Stimulates digestion and metabolism
• Alkalizes the body, reducing inflammation
• Supports healthy hydration

4. Cucumber Juice

• Low in calories, high in water content
• Supports hydration and digestion
• Rich in antioxidants

5. Cranberry Juice

• Low in sugar, high in fiber
• Supports healthy digestion and gut bacteria
• May reduce bloating

6. Ginger Tea

• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Aids digestion and metabolism
• Suppresses appetite

7. Protein Shakes

• Supports muscle growth and repair
• Helps keep you full and satisfied
• Convenient and portable

8. Vegetable Juice

• Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
• Supports healthy digestion and energy
• Low in calories

Tips and Precautions

1. Choose unsweetened and low-calorie options.
2. Drink in moderation (excessive consumption can hinder weight loss).
3. Combine with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
4. Consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes.

Hand washing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of illnesses and infections. Yet, many people overlook this crucial habit, putting themselves and others at risk. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of hand washing, its benefits, and provide tips on proper hand washing techniques.

Why Hand Washing is Important

1. Prevents the Spread of Infections: Hand washing removes germs, viruses, and bacteria that cause illnesses like the flu, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.
2. Saves Lives: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hand washing can reduce diarrheal diseases by 47% and respiratory infections by 16%.
3. Protects Vulnerable Populations: Hand washing is especially crucial for young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
4. Reduces Antibiotic Resistance: By preventing infections, hand washing helps reduce the need for antibiotics, slowing antibiotic resistance.

When to Wash Your Hands

1. After Using the Bathroom
2. Before Eating
3. After Coughing, Sneezing, or Blowing Your Nose
4. After Touching Animals or Their Waste
5. After Being in Contact with Someone Who’s Sick
6. After Handling Garbage or Chemicals
7. Before and After Preparing Food

Proper Hand Washing Technique

1. Wet Hands with Warm Water
2. Apply Soap
3. Rub Hands Together for 20 Seconds
4. Scrub All Surfaces (Palms, Backs, Fingers, Wrists)
5. Rinse Thoroughly
6. Dry Hands Completely

Additional Tips

1. Use Soap and Water: Hand sanitizers are effective, but soap and water are best.
2. Wash Hands Frequently: Aim for 8-10 times per day.
3. Teach Children: Instill good hand washing habits early.
4. Lead by Example: Demonstrate hand washing importance to others.

Hand washing is a simple yet powerful tool in preventing illnesses and saving lives. By incorporating hand washing into your daily routine, you’ll protect yourself, your loved ones, and contribute to a healthier community.

The human brain is a marvel of complexity and sophistication, comprising billions of neurons and trillions of connections. It’s the control center of our body, enabling us to think, learn, move, and experience emotions. In this article, we’ll delve into the brain’s structure, function, and fascinating processes.

Brain Structure

The brain consists of three main parts:

1. Cerebrum: Divided into two hemispheres (left and right), it processes sensory information, controls movement, and manages higher-level thinking.
2. Cerebellum: Coordinates muscle movements, balance, and posture.
3. Brainstem: Connects the cerebrum to the spinal cord, regulating basic functions like breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.

Brain Function

The brain’s primary functions include:

1. Sensory Processing: Interpreting sensory information from our environment.
2. Motor Control: Coordinating movement and action.
3. Cognition: Processing thoughts, emotions, and memories.
4. Emotion Regulation: Managing emotional responses.

Neurotransmitters and Synapses

Neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) transmit signals between neurons through synapses (small gaps). Key neurotransmitters include:

1. Dopamine: Regulates pleasure, reward, and motivation.
2. Serotonin: Influences mood, appetite, and sleep.
3. Acetylcholine: Involved in memory formation and muscle contraction.

Brain Regions and Their Functions

1. Frontal Lobe: Decision-making, problem-solving, and motor control.
2. Parietal Lobe: Processes sensory information related to touch and spatial awareness.
3. Temporal Lobe: Plays a key role in memory, language, and auditory processing.
4. Occipital Lobe: Primarily responsible for processing visual information.

Fascinating Brain Facts

1. Brain Plasticity: The brain adapts and changes throughout life.
2. Neurogenesis: New neurons are born in certain brain regions.
3. Brain Wave Patterns: Different states (alpha, beta, theta, delta) reflect varying levels of consciousness.

The human brain is an intricate, awe-inspiring organ. Understanding its structure, function, and processes can provide valuable insights into our behavior, emotions, and cognitive abilities. Continued research and exploration will unravel more secrets of the brain, shedding light on the mysteries of human consciousness.