FG begins distribution, installation of CNG kits in Ogun
…Lagos centres begin vehicle inspection for conversion
The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) has commenced the inspection, distribution, and installation of CNG kits for commercial motorists in Ogun State. A total of 500 CNG cylinders and kits have been distributed across three centres in the state.
At one of the conversion centres in Abeokuta, Director of Vehicle Inspection Services at the Ministry of Transportation, Olugboyegba Ademehin, explained that the initial focus was on inspecting vehicles to determine their suitability for conversion. Only those vehicles deemed fit would receive a CNG kit for installation.
Ademehin highlighted that 60 cylinders, consisting of 10 units of 75-litre and 50 units of 65-litre kits, would be distributed at the Ogun Public Works Agency, Agbeloba Centre. He noted that the 75-liter cylinder can support journeys of up to 150 kilometres. The centre is also expected to serve additional members of the public in the coming months.
Regarding safety, Ademehin assured that the CNG cylinders, which are moulded rather than welded, have a thickness of 60 millimetres and are certified by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON). This construction ensures both strength and fireproof properties.
Currently, there are two CNG filling stations in Abeokuta. Ademehin emphasised the state’s commitment to a cleaner environment, noting that Ogun State has already implemented CNG-powered buses in the city. He added that, in light of rising petrol prices, CNG offers a more economical and environmentally friendly alternative for motorists.
Operations Manager at Nigerian Gas and Transport Solutions Ltd., Ali Manager, expressed optimism about the initiative, noting that Nigeria’s natural gas resources remain underutilised. He believes the CNG initiative will help the country fully harness its natural gas potential and provide cost-effective services to the transport sector.
Chairman of the National Union of Transport Workers (NURTW) in Ogun, Alhaji Ismail Adewale, praised the Federal Government for the initiative. Adewale acknowledged the challenges posed by rising petrol and diesel prices but expressed hope that the introduction of CNG would reduce transportation costs and benefit the public.
With this initiative, both the government and transport sector leaders are optimistic about the positive impact of CNG on transportation costs and environmental sustainability.
…Lagos centres begin vehicle inspection for conversion
Also, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi) has commenced the inspection of commercial vehicles eligible for free CNG conversion and installation at centres in Lagos. This initiative, approved by President Bola Tinubu, aims to provide Nigerians with a more affordable and environmentally friendly vehicle fueling option.
Special Project Adviser for PCNGi, Olayinka Rufai, reported that the inspection process has been successful, with most vehicles meeting the criteria for conversion. He noted that the program’s initial phase will cover approximately 10,000 vehicles, with 1,000 vehicles scheduled for conversion in the coming days on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Our ambitious target is to convert one million vehicles by 2027. We are starting with about 20 conversion centres nationwide and plan to expand this number,” Rufai said. He emphasised the importance of meeting technical, physical, and digital requirements for accreditation of these centres, ensuring that they adhere to high standards of safety and quality.
Rufai also encouraged private investors to contribute by establishing more CNG filling stations across the country. He highlighted that the primary focus is on commercial vehicles to maximise the impact on public transportation costs and alleviate financial burdens on commuters.
“This initial first-come, first-served phase is expected to be completed within a week,” he added.
Mr. Azeez Adekanmbi, Head of the Technical Department at Mezovest Energy Trading Ltd., reported that about 18 vehicles have been inspected so far. Mezovest, in partnership with PCNGi, will be converting 50 commercial vehicles belonging to organisations such as the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers.
“The current phase involves validating the vehicles to ensure their suitability for conversion. Once we complete the assigned 50 vehicles, we will await authorization to inspect additional vehicles,” Adekanmbi explained.
Adeshiji Abowaba, a technician at Mezovest Energy Trading Ltd., noted the importance of proper installation for balance and safety. He assured that the gas tanks used in the conversions are fireproof and bulletproof, with a thickness ranging between 15mm and 20mm.
“While there may be concerns about gas safety, it is important to understand that CNG is not the same as Liquefied Petroleum Gas. CNG is safe and, even in the event of a leak or fire, the pressure is released harmlessly into the air,” Abowaba said.
The PCNGi initiative aims to enhance the safety and affordability of vehicle fueling, making a significant impact on both the environment and transportation costs for Nigerians.
