With the recent removal of fuel subsidies leading to increased gasoline and diesel prices, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is emerging as a promising alternative for motorists in Nigeria. CNG, a compressed form of methane, offers a cleaner and more economical option for vehicles and power generators, and its adoption is rapidly gaining traction.
CNG, also known as compressed natural gas, 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.
One of the states in the northern part of Nigeria has launched a study team of engineers to undergo automobile conversion from diesel and petrol engines to compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in western Nigeria, Ogun state. This initiative comes in response to the recent removal of fuel subsidies, which has significantly increased fuel prices and prompted the search for more economical and sustainable alternatives, according to Wikitimes.
The Director of Transport, Engr. Mahmud Musa Sarki, while inspecting some of the CNG-powered buses in Abeokuta, Ogun state, stated that Kano state will learn valuable lessons from this conversion process. The Ogun state government initiated the conversion to mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal, aiming to reduce the cost of transportation and promote the use of environmentally friendly CNG.
Energy Afrique’s earlier reports stated that the expansion of CNG infrastructure will make it more accessible for a wider range of vehicles, including buses, cars, and tricycles, significantly lowering transportation costs, reducing emissions, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Engr. Mahmud Sarki expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I am thrilled by what we are seeing here, particularly the likely effect on the reduction of transport fare which the conversion would have on commuters when the vehicles begin to ply the roads. We are pleased to have this first-hand experience and we will go back to our state to replicate the same with a view to making living more abundant for an average Kano resident.”
The Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Revenue Assurance, Mr. Oluseyi Ogunseye, emphasized the economic advantages of running engines on CNG, highlighting the significant cost savings compared to diesel and petrol. Additionally, CNG offers a greener environment by reducing environmental pollution.
This initiative in Nigeria reflects the growing interest in alternative fuels like CNG as countries seek cleaner and more cost-effective options in response to volatile fuel prices and environmental concerns.