The Federal Government has launched the conversion of 50 vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in Zaria, Kaduna State, as part of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi). This initiative aims to ease the financial burden on Nigerians by promoting the use of CNG, a cleaner and more cost-effective alternative to traditional fuels.
The conversion, which includes free conversion kits and installation for commercial drivers, is part of the government’s strategy to mitigate the effects of the recent fuel subsidy removal and facilitate a transition to more sustainable energy solutions.
During the pre-conversion testing of 50 vehicles owned by members of the commercial transport union in Zaria over the weekend, Dauda Suleiman, Assistant Director and Team Lead for the CNG conversion initiative at the National Institute for Transport Technology (NITT), highlighted the benefits of CNG. Suleiman noted that the beneficiaries were members of various transport unions, including the National Union of Road Transport Workers of Nigeria, the National Association of Transport Owners, and the Association of Taxi Drivers.
He explained that the subsidy removal was driven by the need to shift focus toward CNG, a cheaper and more abundant fuel source in Nigeria. “A kilogram of CNG costs ₦230 in Abuja and ₦455 in Kaduna, making it significantly more affordable than petrol. Additionally, CNG vehicles cover longer distances than those running on petrol, making it a more cost-effective option,” he said.
While the first 50 vehicles will receive free conversion kits, Suleiman emphasized that the initiative is designed to be accessible to all, with the cost of conversion kits being kept reasonable. He acknowledged that the current availability of CNG in Kaduna is limited, with only one refueling station in operation, but expressed optimism that more stations will be established across the country in the near future.
On the topic of maintenance, Suleiman reassured drivers that CNG vehicles are 90% maintenance-free, requiring only standard vehicle upkeep. He also mentioned that the government is offering training programs for mechanics to address any concerns related to CNG vehicle maintenance.
“Public awareness and education are key to the success of this initiative,” Suleiman added. “CNG is the future of Nigeria’s transportation sector, and we are committed to ensuring that Nigerians benefit from reduced fuel costs and improved efficiency.”
Comrade Lawal Abdullahi, Chairman of the Zaria branch of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), praised the Federal Government for introducing the CNG conversion program, stating that it will significantly lower operating costs for commercial vehicle owners. He predicted that this would lead to reduced transport fares and increased economic benefits for Nigerians.
Abdullahi explained that with the removal of the petrol subsidy, CNG conversion is now even more critical for commercial drivers. “By switching to CNG, our members will save significantly on fuel costs, which will allow them to lower transport fares and make transportation more affordable for the public. So far, 50 vehicles have been converted, with 500 more members awaiting the same process,” he said.
He concluded by encouraging union members to embrace the initiative, stressing that it would help ease the transportation challenges caused by the removal of the petrol subsidy.
