The Federal Government has taken a significant step towards transforming Nigeria’s transportation sector by launching an initiative to convert 50 vehicles to run on Compressed Natural Gas in Zaria, Kaduna State.
This initiative, part of the broader Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (P-CNG) project, promises to reduce fuel costs and increase efficiency across the country.
According to The PUNCH, the lead for the CNG conversion project at the National Institute for Transport Technology Centre, Dauda Suleiman, disclosed that the P-CNG initiative is providing free conversion kits and installation for commercial drivers.
Speaking on Saturday during pre-conversion tests for 50 vehicles owned by commercial transport union members in Zaria, he highlighted the scope and benefits of the initiative.
The first beneficiaries of this effort include members of key transport unions such as the National Union of Road Transport Workers of Nigeria the National Association of Transport Owners and the Association of Taxis.
Suleiman emphasized the importance of CNG as a cheaper and more efficient alternative to petrol, especially after the government’s recent removal of petrol subsidies.
“A kilogram of CNG sells for N230 in Abuja and N455 in Kaduna,” Suleiman said, noting that the price difference underscores CNG’s affordability compared to petrol.
He further explained that vehicles running on CNG cover more distance than those using petrol, making it a highly cost-effective solution for commercial drivers.
With fuel subsidies eliminated, the government is focusing on CNG due to its abundance in the country and its potential to drive down fuel costs.
Suleiman expressed optimism that the P-CNG initiative would ease the burden of high fuel prices for commercial transporters, while also enhancing Nigeria’s energy sustainability.
Though the initial batch of 50 vehicles will receive free conversion kits, Suleiman assured that the program aims to make the conversion process accessible to all, despite the varying costs depending on location and kit availability.
“We are working to ensure that the cost of conversion is not a barrier to adoption,” he stressed.
Currently, CNG refilling infrastructure is limited in Kaduna, with only one operational station.
However, Suleiman expressed confidence that the government is taking active steps to establish more CNG refilling stations across the country to support the growing demand.
Addressing concerns about vehicle maintenance, Suleiman noted that CNG systems require minimal upkeep. “CNG is 90% maintenance-free,” he stated, adding that regular vehicle servicing is all that is required. Furthermore, mechanics are being trained to handle any maintenance issues related to CNG systems, ensuring long-term reliability for drivers.
Public awareness and education are seen as vital components of the initiative’s success. Suleiman highlighted the need for a nationwide effort to educate Nigerians about the benefits of CNG. “CNG is the future of Nigeria’s transportation sector,” he remarked, adding that the government is fully committed to ensuring that Nigerians enjoy the reduced fuel costs and improved efficiency that CNG promises.
In support of the initiative, Comrade Lawal Abdullahi, Chairman of the Zaria branch of NURTW, lauded the Federal Government for its foresight.
“The conversion to CNG will significantly reduce operating costs for commercial vehicle owners, which will ultimately lower transport fares and improve economic conditions for all Nigerians,” Abdullahi noted during the event.
He stressed that many commercial vehicle owners were eager to embrace CNG as a solution to the rising cost of fuel following the subsidy removal. “With the removal of subsidy, fuel costs will increase, but with CNG, our members will save significantly,” he explained. Abdullahi added that 50 vehicles had already been converted, with an additional 500 members awaiting conversion.
“Our members are enthusiastic about this initiative. We have 500 more members eager to convert their vehicles, and we are working closely with the Federal Government to ensure a seamless process,” he said. Abdullahi urged NURTW members to cooperate with the initiative, highlighting that it was designed to provide long-term relief for transporters and the public at large.
The P-CNG initiative forms a critical part of President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s strategy to mitigate the effects of petrol subsidy removal.
By promoting CNG as a cleaner and more affordable alternative to traditional fuels, the government aims to create a smoother transition to a sustainable energy future while alleviating the financial burden on Nigerians.
