The federal government has directed filling station owners across the country to begin installing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) pumps. The Tinubu administration believes this initiative will provide Nigerians with better access to affordable fuel, priced at N200. CNG is viewed as a cheaper alternative to Premium Motor Spirit, commonly known as petrol.
The Nigerian government has mandated oil marketers to implement CNG pumps at their filling stations, aiming to enhance access to this alternative fuel source. This directive was announced by Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), during the 2024 OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week in Nigeria’s commercial hub.
According to the NMDPRA, the new requirement will enable most retail outlets to install CNG add-ons to cater to the growing number of CNG-powered vehicles nationwide. Ahmed stated, “Most retail outlets would be required to install CNG add-ons to service the increasing fleet of CNG vehicles.”
He also highlighted that the NMDPRA is working closely with stakeholders to enhance CNG availability as part of the government’s broader energy transition goals.
The Tinubu administration is actively promoting CNG adoption to reduce reliance on petrol and lower fuel import expenses. President Bola Tinubu recently encouraged Nigerian motorists to choose between purchasing petrol at N1,000 per litre or CNG at N200 per Standard Cubic Meter. He noted that CNG is a cleaner and more economical fuel option, significantly reducing consumers’ fuel costs.
Additionally, the government has launched a portal for Nigerians to convert their vehicles from petrol to CNG, allowing for flexible payment plans. The National Orientation Agency has assured applicants of support throughout the conversion process, with opportunities for quick approval.
Peoplesmind
