President Bola Tinubu has granted approval for the creation of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI). This initiative aims to mitigate the effects of fuel subsidy removal on the Nigerian population by lowering energy expenses.
According to Solace base this initiative will change the transformation landscape targeting 11,500 new CNG-enabled vehicles and 55,000 CNG kits for existing PMS-dependent vehicles.
Energy Afrique earlier reported that CNG, is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Operating similarly to gasoline-powered vehicles, CNG can be utilized in specially modified or manufactured vehicles with internal spark-ignited combustion engines. It serves as a substitute for gasoline, diesel fuel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), offering reduced emissions and cost-effectiveness.
The appeal of CNG lies in its safety and environmental benefits. CNG is non-toxic, lighter than air, disperses quickly, and does not contaminate groundwater. This clean-burning fuel is already utilized for home cooking, heating, and even industrial processes in developed countries.
In a statement issued by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, it was announced that the initiative would also promote domestic manufacturing, local assembly, and substantial job generation, aligning with the directives of the presidency.
The initiative consists of an all-encompassing adoption strategy that encompasses the following components: Empowerment Workshops Program with a Nationwide Network of Workshops, Local Assembly, and Job Generation.
Tinubu emphasized that these aspects are focal points of the initiative, with the initial concentration being on mass transit systems and student hubs. The primary goal is to substantially decrease transportation expenses for the general public in the short term.
He stated that the PCNGI’s objective is to achieve a smooth integration of CNG utility into the existing midstream and downstream energy value chain, thus ensuring the sustainability of the initiative.
He also said it would provide workshops across all the geopolitical zones and states with essential kits and training for the new staff.
As per reports from Solace Base and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) is set to achieve the following strategic objectives:
-Development of new Intrastate Mass Transit systems operated by stakeholders, utilizing CNG.
-Support for states to integrate CNG buses into their Intrastate Mass Transit network, including wholesale conversion, retrofitting, and new purchases.
-Deployment of CNG buses through existing Private Mass Transit operators, with the introduction of innovative asset finance programs to aid operators.
-Encouragement of investors to participate in CNG processing, distribution, and utilization, offering incentives for enhanced investment and partnerships.
-Provision of training and technology transfer to strengthen the After-Sales Services and maintenance sub-industry, leading to sustainable job creation.
President Tinubu highlighted that the emphasis on assembling CNG-enabled vehicles within the country will spur economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and enhance the nation’s automotive manufacturing capabilities. He also noted that this approach underscores the government’s dedication to a greener environment by reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy security through the utilization of domestic natural gas resources.
