Tinubu Approves Innovative CNG Initiative

In a bid to alleviate the impact of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians and promote a cleaner environment, President Bola Tinubu has given his seal of approval for the establishment of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI).

This groundbreaking move is set to revolutionize the transportation sector in Nigeria by introducing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-enabled vehicles and conversion kits, alongside boosting local manufacturing, assembly, and employment opportunities.

The PCNGI, which comprises a Comprehensive Adoption Strategy, aims to introduce more than 11,500 CNG-enabled vehicles and provide 55,000 CNG conversion kits for existing petrol-dependent vehicles.

This strategic effort will help Nigeria transition towards a more sustainable energy landscape while also creating local job opportunities.

In alignment with the presidential directive, the initiative will focus on the following key components:

1. Empowering Workshops Programme: The PCNGI will establish a network of workshops across Nigeria, primarily targeting mass transit systems and student hubs. This initiative aims to reduce transportation costs for the general public by facilitating the integration of CNG technology into vehicles.
2. Local Assembly and Job Creation: The initiative will set up workshops in various geopolitical zones and states to provide essential kits and comprehensive training for newly employed staff. This will not only support the integration of CNG technology but also create opportunities for skill development and employment.

The establishment of a nationwide network of workshops will ensure widespread access and utilization of CNG technology, driving the adoption of cleaner transportation options and benefiting the Nigerian economy.

The strategic objectives of the PCNGI include:

• Developing new mass transit systems based on CNG technology.
• Supporting states in introducing CNG buses as part of their Intrastate Mass Transit networks.
• Deploying CNG buses through existing private mass transit operators.
• Incentivizing investments in CNG processing, distribution, and utilization.
• Providing training and technology transfer to support after-sales services and maintenance, creating sustainable jobs.

President Tinubu’s emphasis on local assembly of CNG-enabled vehicles is expected to stimulate economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and bolster the nation’s automotive manufacturing capabilities. This initiative also underscores the administration’s commitment to fostering a cleaner environment by reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy security through domestic natural gas resources.

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative was announced via the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Centre’s Twitter account, @PBATMediaCentre, and the statement was made known by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity.

With this groundbreaking initiative, Nigeria is poised to take a significant step towards a more sustainable and cleaner transportation future.