In Zaria, Kaduna State, the Federal Government has started converting 50 vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG) as part of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi).
By encouraging the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) as a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly fuel substitute, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) aimed to alleviate the situation for Nigerians.
The action, which would offer free conversion kits and installation to business drivers with the first 50 vehicles, was a component of the FG’s endeavours to mitigate the effects of the elimination of subsidies and guarantee a more seamless shift to more environmental energy in the future.
Speaking to reporters over the weekend during the pre-conversion testing for 50 vehicles owned by members of the commercial transport union in Zaria, Kaduna state, Dauda Suleiman, an assistant director at the National Institute for Transport Technology (NITT) Centre, led the team responsible for the CNG conversion initiative. Among the beneficiaries were members of the Association of Taxis, National Association of Transport Owners, and National Union of Road Transport Workers of Nigeria.According to him, the government’s focus on CNG and the elimination of petrol subsidies are because of its abundance and lower cost.
In Abuja and Kaduna, a kilogramme of CNG costs N230 and N455, respectively, making it less expensive than petrol.Furthermore, CNG is a more affordable option because it can go farther than petrol.Because of its abundance and reduced cost, the government has removed the fuel subsidy and placed more attention on CNG, he said. The location and availability of kits affect the conversion cost, but our goal is to make this project affordable for everyone. The modification kits will be given away for free to the first 50 cars, but after that, other cars can obtain them for a fair price.
“We are striving to guarantee that adoption is not impeded by the expense of conversion,” he stated.
“Currently, Kaduna has only one CNG refilling station. “We are confident that the government will establish more CNG stations throughout the country,” he said.Regarding maintenance and durability, Suleiman stated that CNG is 90% maintenance-free, and that “CNG requires minimal maintenance beyond regular vehicle maintenance.
” We also provide training programs for mechanics to handle any issues.”
“Public awareness and education are critical to the success of the campaign.CNG represents the future of Nigeria’s transport sector.
We are committed to making this project a success and ensuring that Nigerians benefit from the lower fuel costs and better efficiency that CNG provides.
“CNG is more than simply fuel; it’s a game changer. We are happy to be a part of this endeavour and look forward to watching how it affects Nigeria’s transport sector’, he said.
The Federal Government’s attempt to convert commercial vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) has been applauded by Comrade Lawal Abdullahi, the Chairman of the Zaria branch of the National Union of Road
Transport Workers of Nigeria. According to Abdullahi, the conversion will drastically lower the operational expenses for owners of commercial vehicles, resulting in lower transportation costs and more economic advantages for Nigerians. “We give thanks to God for giving our members—who are mainly owners of commercial vehicles—this chance. Our economy will be greatly enhanced by the switch to CNG in the transportation sector.
We value the Federal Government’s thoughtfulness and the subsequent actions taken by our leaders to bring this to fruition,” Abdullahi remarked.According to him, the elimination of the petrol subsidy made the conversion to CNG even more crucial for owners of business vehicles.
“With the elimination of subsidies, fuel costs will rise, but with CNG, our members would save greatly.
This will allow them to minimise transit costs, making it more affordable for Nigerians.
Many NURTWN members are keen to convert their automobiles, with 50 already converted and 500 still awaiting conversion.”
“Our members are excited about this effort. We have 500 members who are ready to convert their vehicles, and we are working closely with the federal government to ensure a smooth transition.
“I urge them to collaborate and comprehend the federal government’s intentions. “The government has good intentions, and this initiative aims to improve the transport system following the removal of petrol subsidies,” he said.
In Essence
The Federal Government’s initiative to convert vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG) in Zaria as part of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) is a significant and forward-looking step.
This move aligns with global trends toward cleaner, more sustainable energy sources while addressing the economic challenges that arose from the removal of petrol subsidies.
From an economic perspective, the initiative could relieve pressure on commercial vehicle operators, who have been hit hard by the rising costs of fuel.
The free conversion kits and the cost savings from CNG particularly as it is cheaper and more efficient than petrol are likely to lead to reduced transportation costs, which should ultimately benefit the broader economy.
This could lower the cost of goods and services as transport becomes less expensive, easing the burden on consumers.
