The Federal Government has launched an initiative to convert 50 vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas in Zaria, Kaduna State, as part of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas initiative.
The move has been touted as a game-changer for Nigeria’s transportation sector, with promises of reduced fuel costs and increased efficiency.
The team Lead for the CNG conversion initiative at the National Institute for Transport Technology Centre, Dauda Suleiman, said the P-CNG iis providing free conversion kits and installation for commercial drivers with the first 50 vehicles.
Suleiman made this known on Saturday during the pre-conversion tests for 50 vehicles belonging to commercial transport union members in Zaria.
The beneficiaries, he said, include members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers of Nigeria, National Association of Transport Owners, and Association of Taxis, among others,
Suleiman explained that the removal of the petrol subsidy and the government’s emphasis on CNG was due to its abundance and lower cost.
He said, “A kilogram of CNG goes for N230 in Abuja and N455 in Kaduna, making it cheaper than petrol. Additionally, CNG covers more distance than petrol, making it a cost-effective option.”
“The removal of subsidy on petrol and the government’s emphasis on CNG is due to its abundance and lower cost.”
He also noted that the cost of conversion varies depending on the location and availability of kits, pointing out that “we are committed to making this initiative accessible to all.”
“While the initial 50 vehicles will receive free conversion kits, others can access the kits at a reasonable cost. We are working to ensure that the cost of conversion is not a barrier to adoption,” he added.
He noted that currently, CNG availability was limited in Kaduna, with only one refilling station available while however, expressing confidence that the government would establish more CNG stations across the country.
Addressing concerns about maintenance and durability, Suleiman emphasized that CNG was 90% maintenance-free, saying, “CNG requires minimal maintenance beyond regular vehicle maintenance. We also offer training programs for mechanics to address any concerns.”
Suleiman, who is an Assistant Director at the NITT, also acknowledged that public awareness and education are crucial to the success of the initiative.
“CNG is the future of Nigeria’s transportation sector. We are committed to making this initiative a success and ensuring that Nigerians benefit from the reduced fuel costs and increased efficiency that CNG offers.
“CNG is not just a fuel, and it’s a game-changer. We are proud to be part of this initiative and look forward to seeing its impact on Nigeria’s transportation sector,” he added.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Zaria branch of the National Union of Road Transport Workers of Nigeria, Comrade Lawal Abdullahi, commended the Federal Government’s initiative to convert commercial vehicles to CNG.
Abdullahi, who spoke to newsmen at the event, said the conversion would significantly reduce operating costs for commercial vehicle owners, leading to decreased transport fares and improved economic benefits for Nigerians.
“We thank God for providing this opportunity for our members, who are primarily commercial vehicle owners. Abdullahi said.
“The conversion to CNG will significantly boost our economy in terms of transportation. We appreciate the Federal Government’s consideration and our leaders’ follow-up efforts to make this a reality,” Abdullahi said.
According to him, the removal of subsidy on petrol made the CNG conversion even more critical for commercial vehicle owners.
“With the removal of subsidy, fuel costs will increase, but with CNG, our members will save significantly. This will enable them to reduce transport fares, making transportation more affordable for Nigerians,” he added.
He disclosed that many NURTW members were eager to convert their vehicles, with 50 vehicles already converted and 500 members awaiting conversion.
“Our members are enthusiastic about this initiative. We have 500 members who are eager to convert their vehicles, and we are working closely with the Federal Government to ensure a seamless process.
“I urge them to cooperate and understand the Federal Government’s intentions. The government means well, and this initiative aims to ease the transportation system following the removal of subsidy on petrol.”
The PCNGi is a key component of President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s palliative measures aimed at mitigating the effects of the fuel subsidy removal policy on the masses.
The initiative seeks to provide relief to Nigerians by promoting the use of CNG as a cleaner and more affordable alternative to fuel.
The move was part of the government’s efforts to cushion the impact of the subsidy removal and ensure a smoother transition to a more sustainable energy future.
