In a bid to alleviate the burden of rising fuel costs on Nigerians and promote cleaner energy, the Federal Government has announced plans to convert 30,000 petrol and diesel-powered vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) within the next three months. This ambitious project is expected to cost a total of ₦36 billion.
The Project Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), Michael Oluwagbemi, disclosed this during the Park to Park CNG Mobilisation programme held at the Ojota Park in Lagos on Saturday. He emphasized the government’s commitment to making CNG a viable alternative to petrol and diesel, thereby reducing transportation costs and, consequently, the price of food items.
“President Bola Tinubu is resolute in ensuring that transporters shift to CNG to mitigate the impact of high fuel prices,” Oluwagbemi stated. “This is a significant step towards easing the financial strain on Nigerians, particularly those in the transport sector.”
Free CNG Conversion Kits for Drivers
To expedite the adoption of CNG, the government has acquired 30,000 conversion kits, which will be distributed free of charge to commercial drivers nationwide. Each conversion kit is valued at ₦1.2 million, bringing the total investment to ₦36 billion over the next 90 days.
“We are commencing this initiative with the distribution of 30,000 CNG conversion kits across Lagos, Ogun, Ekiti, Osun, and Oyo states,” Oluwagbemi explained. “This is just the beginning; the President has outlined a target of one million kits to be distributed as palliatives to commercial drivers across Nigeria.”
Expansion of CNG Infrastructure
Complementing the distribution of conversion kits, the government is also accelerating the development of CNG stations nationwide. Oluwagbemi assured Nigerians that the price of CNG will be significantly lower than that of petrol and diesel.
“We are building more CNG stations where drivers can purchase the gas at a price below ₦250 per kilogram,” he said. “This is a substantial reduction compared to the current exorbitant prices of petrol and diesel, which often exceed ₦700 per liter.”
Pilot Program for Free CNG Conversions
To kickstart the initiative, the government will select 150 drivers in Lagos to benefit from free vehicle conversions. Collaborating with 14 certified workshops in the state, the PCNGI will provide vouchers for the conversion services.
“We aim to gradually increase the number of beneficiaries until CNG becomes the preferred fuel for commercial transportation,” Oluwagbemi added. “This transition will not only benefit drivers but also consumers, as reduced transportation costs will lead to lower food prices.”
Addressing Environmental Concerns and Economic Impact
The shift to CNG is expected to have a positive impact on the environment by reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality. Additionally, the government believes that the initiative will stimulate economic growth by creating jobs in the CNG value chain.
“CNG is a win-win situation for everyone involved,” Oluwagbemi emphasized. “It is good for our pockets, the environment, and the overall economy. We are confident that this initiative will deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.”
Challenges and Opportunities
While the government’s CNG initiative is laudable, there are challenges that need to be addressed to ensure its success. These include the need for adequate infrastructure, public awareness campaigns, and incentives for early adopters.
However, the potential benefits of widespread CNG adoption are significant. By reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, improving air quality, and creating jobs, the government’s CNG initiative can contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous Nigeria.
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As the government moves forward with this ambitious project, it is crucial to monitor its progress and address any challenges that may arise. With careful planning and implementation, the CNG initiative has the potential to transform the transportation sector and improve the lives of millions of Nigerians.
If You Ask Me
The Federal Government’s ₦36 billion investment in CNG conversion is a bold step towards addressing the challenges posed by high fuel prices. By providing free conversion kits and expanding CNG infrastructure, the government aims to create a more sustainable and affordable transportation system for Nigerians.
The success of this initiative will depend on effective coordination, collaboration, and public support. As the project unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor its progress and address any emerging challenges to ensure its long-term viability.
