President Bola Ahmed Tinubu PHOTO: Twitter/DOlusegun
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given his approval for the establishment of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), aimed at promoting the widespread adoption of gas-powered vehicles across the nation.
In a statement released by the Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity), Ajuri Ngelale, it was revealed that this initiative aligns with Tinubu’s dedication to alleviating the effects of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerian citizens by curbing energy expenses.
This groundbreaking effort is set to revolutionize the transportation sector in the country. The primary objective is to introduce more than 11,500 new vehicles equipped with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) technology, while also providing 55,000 CNG conversion kits for existing gasoline-dependent vehicles. Simultaneously, the initiative will support domestic manufacturing, local assembly, and substantial job creation as per the presidential directive.
The comprehensive approach of the initiative encompasses various aspects. It includes the establishment of workshop programs and a nationwide network of workshops, with a strong emphasis on local assembly and job opportunities. The initial concentration will be on mass transit systems and student transportation hubs to significantly decrease commuting costs for the general public in the short term.
To ensure the seamless integration of CNG utility within the energy value chain, the PCNGI will facilitate workshops across all geopolitical zones and states. These workshops will come equipped with essential kits and comprehensive training for newly hired staff, thereby fostering technical skill development and employment for Nigerians.
Through the nationwide network of workshops established by the PCNGI, wide-ranging access and demand for CNG technology and expertise will be ensured. This approach will facilitate smoother transitions for vehicle owners and ultimately benefit the Nigerian economy.
Under the PCNGI’s guidance, strategic objectives will be accomplished, including the development of stakeholder-operated intrastate mass transit systems based on CNG. The initiative will also support states in integrating new CNG buses into their intrastate mass transit networks through various means such as wholesale conversion, retro-fitting, and new purchases. Furthermore, CNG buses will be introduced through private mass transit operators, backed by innovative asset finance programs to aid the operators.
Additionally, the initiative will incentivize investors to engage in CNG processing, distribution, and utilization by offering incentives for increased investment and partnerships. There will also be a focus on training and technology transfer to ensure sustainable job creation in the sub-industry, specifically for after-sales services and maintenance.
Tinubu’s emphasis on local assembly of CNG-enabled vehicles is projected to spur economic growth, generate employment prospects, and fortify the nation’s automotive manufacturing capabilities.
Ngelale highlighted that the launch of this initiative demonstrates the administration’s commitment to fostering a greener environment by reducing carbon emissions and bolstering energy security through the utilization of domestic natural gas resources.
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