The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has emphasised the importance of $200 million investment in the compressed natural gas (CNG) infrastructure and the ambitious target of converting over 100,000 vehicles.
At the ongoing Nigerian International Energy Summit (NIES) in Abuja, Ekpo said the initiative is crucial in reducing transportation costs and promoting energy sustainability across the country.
He highlighted that expanding CNG adoption would provide Nigerians with a cheaper and cleaner alternative to traditional fuel, aligning with the government’s commitment to energy transition and economic relief.
The minister assured that the government was committed to ensuring the success of the CNG initiative, which is expected to ease the financial burden on citizens while driving sustainable energy solutions.
He added that in response to the 2023 fuel subsidy removal and subsequent petrol price surge, the CNG programme was initiated by the government to provide cost-effective and environmentally-friendly transportation alternatives.
“With over 100,000 vehicles targeted for conversion and a $200 million investment in CNG infrastructure, the programme is crucial in reducing transportation costs and promoting energy sustainability,” he said.
Ekpo stressed that substantial progress has been made in gas infrastructure development, policy reforms, gas utilisation and domestic initiatives, leading to a remarkable turnaround for the sector.
He mentioned that the sector has witnessed significant transformation under the administration of President Bola Tinubu coupled with the collaboration between Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and private sector partners for investments in mini Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects in the country.
He pointed out that the partnership has seen the establishment of Prime LNG Plant, BUA LNG, Highland LNG, NGML/GasNexus LNG and LNG Arete to accelerate Nigeria’s industrialisation, economic growth and prosperity.
“The Federal Government is attracting investment in LNG, CNG, and gas-to-chemicals, and by fostering a business-friendly environment, Nigeria is building a sustainable gas ecosystem that drives industrialization, job creation, and energy security, ensuring a cleaner and prosperous future,” he said.
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