Evaluating Evidence-Based Ecosystems-Based Adaptation for Food Security Assembly (EBAFOSA) and Nasarawa State University (NSUK) Initiatives: Decarbonization, Clean Cooking Energy Promotion, and Cassava Food Chain Entrepreneurship in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: This paper examines the enterprise-focused efforts of the Ecosystems-Based Adaptation for Food Security Assembly (EBAFOSA) and Nasarawa State University (NSUK) in decarbonizing the domestic energy sector, particularly in Nigeria, while drawing lessons applicable at the continental level, given the significant prevalence of land-based emissions in Africa.

Aims: The study aims to assess the impact of EBAFOSA and NSUK initiatives on decarbonization, focusing on the adoption of clean cooking energy and entrepreneurship within the cassava food chain, with a particular emphasis on household engagement and economic outcomes.

Method(s): The research engaged up to 60 households in Nasarawa, Nigeria, evaluating the efficacy of interventions such as the displacement of charcoal with briquettes in cassava processing. Data collection involved assessing energy cost reductions, shifts in energy sources, and economic implications for local actors.

Results: Findings indicate significant reductions in household energy costs (by 2–3 times) and a notable transition from charcoal to briquettes among garri processors, with approximately 36 processors (representing a conversion rate of about 65%) adopting this cleaner energy source. This shift led to a 46% reduction in fuel costs for these actors, with an estimated weekly savings of NGN 14,500. Extrapolating these results to Nigeria’s estimated 140 million charcoal users suggests potential revenue generation of about USD 4.2 billion in household savings per week. Additionally, the paper discusses policy recommendations aimed at scaling these initiatives both within Nigeria and across Africa.