In a move to secure a sustainable energy future for Nigeria, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) unveiled the Abuja CNG conversion and training center on Thursday. The center, situated at the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), falls under the leadership of Dr. Bayero Farah, the Director-General of NITT.
Chairman of the Presidential CNG Initiative Steering Committee, Mr. Zacch Adedeji, laid emphasis on the significance of CNG in reducing transportation costs, While he pointed out the annually $6 billion spent by the government on importing petroleum, draining foreign exchange and causing economic challenges.
He expressed astonishment that Nigeria continued to buy petrol when abundant natural gas could power vehicles at a significantly reduced cost, creating jobs and opportunities.
Furthermore, Adedeji assured that the CNG project would not favor any monopoly, promoting a level-playing field for all interested parties, predicting that in the next three to five years, Nigeria could save $3 to $5 billion spent on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
The Project Director of P-CNGi, Mr. Michael Oluwagbemi, regarded the center’s launch as a vital step towards cleaner, more affordable, and environmental friendly energy solutions. He stressed the need for adopting CNG technology in the face of climate change and affirmed the project’s alignment with President Tinubu’s vision for a greener and more economically sustainable future.
The DG of the transport institute, Dr. Farah, in his speech, noted the center’s role as a conversion facility for all vehicle types. He encouraged motorists to leverage the center to convert their vehicles to CNG, benefitting from the cost-effective energy source.
With seven CNG conversion centers established across Nigeria, The P-CNGi says it is a symbol of the commitment of Tinubu’s administration to spearhead energy revolution in the country.