LAGOS – The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Eterna Plc, Abiola Lukman Lawal, has called on Nigerians to adopt the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) for transportation and cooking respectively.
Gas, he said, is a viable and cost effective alternative which should be given proper awareness.
He spoke at an industry event in Lagos recently.
Highlighting the benefits of CNG and LPG in the downstream sector, he said that there will be reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
“Also, there will be cleaner combustion compared to traditional fuels, cost savings for consumers and businesses. This will create more jobs in the CNG and LPG supply chain.”
He spoke on the Federal Government’s efforts to ensure its circulation and accessibility, saying Nigeria’s Decade of Gas Initiative, Presidential CNG Initiative (Pi-CNG) and Installation of CNG stations were launched for efficiency.
He said, “12 new CNG stations were commissioned in Lagos and Abuja in 2024. 35 new CNG stations across the various geopolitical zones planned.
“The Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGi) was launched in 2023, aimed at alleviating the hardship of fuel price increase mostly in transportation (via buses). The Conversion Incentive Program to either provide free or heavily discounted car conversions.
“The Standard Organization of Nigeria has also introduced 80 standards covering aspects of CNG utilization, including production, storage, transportation, and appliance compatibility.
“The Decade of Gas initiative, launched in 2021, is focused on transforming Nigeria into a gas-powered economy by 2030 through a series of policy reforms, gas supply projects maturation, gas infrastructure expansion, capacity building and robust investment attraction strategies.”
He noted that Nigeria’s energy sufficiency can be achieved through CNG and LPG if critical stakeholders collaboratively invest in the gas sector.
He further suggested, “large scale investment in gas infrastructure – $20billion is required annually. The Presidential CNG Initiative plans to raise over $350million for CNG infrastructure by 2027.
“$750 million required to develop LPG transport and retailing infrastructure.
Policy and regulatory reform to encourage private sector engagement and investment.
“Tax credits and rebates for purchasing CNG vehicles and converting existing vehicles to CNG. Grants and low-interest loans can encourage private investment in CNG and LPG infrastructure Champion consumer sensitization efforts to create awareness of CNG/ LPG as viable alternatives to oil.
“Educate the public about the environmental and economic benefits of CNG and LPG through media campaigns, workshops, and community programmes. Incorporate information about CNG vehicles and their benefits in driver education and training programmes to inform new drivers of CNG as a viable alternative to conventional fuels.”
