Nigeria is definitely taking a significant step forward with the government’s drive, under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for transitioning to a more affordable yet efficient alternative energy.
Given the rising cost of living following the removal of petrol subsidy since May 2023 and the increasing global demand for sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions, the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) has been widely described as a game-changer in the nation’s transportation landscape.
The increasing cost of petroleum products and its spiral impact on livelihoods have necessitated the exploration of alternative fuel sources, with CNG and electric vehicles (EVs) emerging as viable options.
Since its inauguration by the president, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) has upped the ante in its drive to provide these clean, affordable, and accessible energy alternatives to every cranny of the nation.
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The unveiling of CNG conversion centres across key States in the country including Lagos, Abuja, Rivers, and Ogun, among others is to enhance ease of conversion.
But recently, another conversion centre was inaugurated in the northern State of Kaduna. The groundbreaking was carried out at the Rolling Stone Energy station in Kaduna State.
With dignitaries, government officials, and industry leaders gathered to witness this significant event, the Project Director at P-CNGi, Engineer Michael Oluwagbemi, said, “Today, we unite in Kaduna to mark a spectacular chapter in our transformation journey. Kaduna, like Lagos and Abuja, holds a unique significance because our CNG conversion centres are bridges to a more budget-friendly energy future. This, therefore, symbolizes our commitment to ensuring that the benefits of clean, affordable energy are accessible to every corner of our great nation.”
“As we break ground here, we send a powerful message: We are the architects of a spectacular future! With the support of Nigerians and all stakeholders, the P-CNGi is poised to make a lasting impact on the nation and the planet,” Engineer Oluwagbemi emphasized.
Without belabouring the issue, the coming of the CNG conversion centre to Kaduna comes with multiple implications that are all positives and benefits in terms of tangible impacts on the Kaduna people, its economy, and the environment.
According to the P-CNGi, part of the benefits are accessible and affordable energy; sufficient and sustainable alternative energy; cost-effectiveness enabling greater savings and business growth; job creation and value chain empowerment, among other benefits.
Most importantly, the conversion process ensures that drivers can seamlessly switch between these two fuel sources as required. This adaptability empowers Nigerians to efficiently manage their transportation expenses, thereby reducing the adverse effects of fluctuations in fuel prices.
CNG is also retailed at a cost ranging from N320 to N350 per equivalent litre when compared to petrol. In this context, CNG proves to be notably more cost-effective than conventional petrol, which typically retails at an average of between N550 to N650 per litre.
Overall, the initiative aligns with the global movement towards cleaner and more environmentally responsible energy sources while supporting Nigeria’s goals of reducing its carbon footprint and addressing climate change concerns. Ultimately, the environmental awareness that will be awakened within communities in Kaduna State makes this a win-win for all as residents become more conscious of their environmental footprints and proudly adopt cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
The economic and environmental impact of this initiative is significant, according to the initiative drivers. With P-CNGi’s commitment and Rolling Energy’s support, Kaduna residents stand to benefit from cost savings, job creation, and a reduced environmental footprint.
With the support of Nigerians and all stakeholders, the nation is on the verge of ushering in a new era of economic liberation, energy transformation and environmental responsibility.
Highlighted below are the inherent benefits of the CNG:
Accessible and Affordable Energy: Kaduna State is one of the most highly populated cosmopolitan cities in Nigeria. The availability of CNG as an affordable fuel option ensures that energy is accessible to a broader segment of the population. This affordability translates into improved economic opportunities and a higher standard of living for Kaduna residents.
Sufficient and Sustainable Alternative Energy: CNG is a sustainable and abundant energy source primarily composed of methane, which can be extracted from natural gas reserves. Kaduna residents can benefit from a fuel source that is less prone to supply disruptions and price fluctuations, ensuring greater energy security.
Additionally, the conversion process ensures that drivers can seamlessly switch between these two fuel sources as required. This adaptability empowers Nigerians to efficiently manage their transportation expenses, thereby reducing the adverse effects of fluctuations in fuel prices.
Cost-effectiveness enabling greater savings and business growth: CNG is retailed at a cost ranging from N320 to N350 per equivalent liter when compared to petrol. In this context, CNG proves to be notably more cost-effective than conventional petrol, which typically retails at an average of between N550 to N650 per liter.
This cost reduction directly benefits both individual vehicle owners and businesses operating large fleets as they are able to spend less and save more from daily overhead expenses, particularly those with heavy operational transportation needs. This reduction in overhead expenses translates into increased competitiveness and growth opportunities for individuals, as well as small, medium, and large businesses in Kaduna.
Job Creation and Value Chain Empowerment: The conversion center itself creates employment opportunities for the local workforce. As the center operates and maintains CNG refueling infrastructure, it generates jobs for technicians, operators, and support staff.
The operation and maintenance of CNG conversion centers require skilled technicians and personnel. The center creates opportunities for vocational training and education, enhancing the skill set of the local workforce.
Economic Diversification and Energy Independence: While CNG offers an immediate solution, the CNG conversion center also paves the way for the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as the infrastructure developed for CNG conversion can also be adapted for EV charging stations.
EVs are gaining prominence as a zero-emission transportation alternative and this development enhances the transition in that direction. Therefore, by promoting CNG adoption, the CNG conversion center enables Kaduna align itself with a more sustainable energy future by reducing its dependence on imported petroleum products, ultimately leading to enhanced energy security.
Safety for people and vehicles: CNG’s attributes make it a safe fuel choice. It is stored in properly manufactured, high-pressure seamless cylinders that have received certification to minimize the likelihood of potential leaks. Given that CNG is lighter than air, any leaks lead to its upward dispersion and smooth integration into the atmosphere, guaranteeing a uniform and effortless blending with the surrounding air.
Furthermore, CNG does not contaminate motor engine oil. This makes it safer for engines and protects vehicles, ultimately prolonging their life cycles and reducing maintenance cost for vehicle owners.
Reduced Greenhouse gas emissions and Decreased Air Pollution: CNG is a cleaner-burning fuel compared to traditional gasoline and diesel. By promoting its use as an alternative vehicle fuel, the CNG conversion center in Kaduna will accelerate the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating the effects of climate change, and improving air quality in the State subsequently.
The adoption of CNG as a transportation fuel will thus reduce harmful emissions such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter, which are major contributors to air pollution. Kaduna residents can look forward to breathing cleaner and healthier air with significantly reduced respiratory issues.
