FG begins distribution of CNG conversion kits in Ibadan
The Federal Government has officially launched the distribution of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion kits in Ibadan in a move aimed at alleviating the financial pressures on Nigerians resulting from the recent removal of petrol subsidies.
This initiative, known as the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (P-CNG) Initiative, focuses on supporting commercial transporters across the state.
The distribution event, which took place at the weekend in the state, saw numerous commercial transport operators gathering to receive the conversion kits, which are designed to facilitate the transition from petrol to CNG as a fuel source.
While speaking with newsmen after the distribution, the Business Development Executive, Presidential Compressed Natural Gas P-CNG Initiative, Miss Louisa Afu said the shift is expected to not only reduce operational costs for transporters but also contribute to a cleaner environment by lowering carbon emissions.
She emphasised that the P-CNG Initiative is part of a broader strategy of President Bola Tinubu’s government to mitigate the impact of subsidy removal on the livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians.
By providing these conversion kits, Afu noted that the government aims to make CNG a more accessible and affordable alternative for commercial transport operators.
“We understand the challenges that the removal of petrol subsidies has posed for many Nigerians, particularly those in the transport sector.”
“The distribution of these CNG conversion kits is a proactive step to ensure that our commercial transporters can continue their operations without facing exorbitant fuel costs.”
“As part of ongoing efforts, the Federal Government plans to expand the P-CNG Initiative to other states, ensuring that more commercial transporters can benefit from the programme.”
“These kits are to be used by commercial transport vehicles . This is the President’s way of telling the people that he feels the pains of Nigerians and we are here to provide a better option because of the vast resource of gas in the country. Gas is cheaper and more sustainable.”
She said the 150 kits and free conversion is the first phase of the free conversion, adding, “We have been to NIPCO, Automation Auto Gas and BOVAS.”
She said motorists can refill their CNG in these designated stations.
Afu disclosed that the P-CNGI is looking into financing for private car owners who wish to convert to CNG adding that it will be holding talks with banks to give cheaper financing to private individuals who wish to convert their vehicles to CNG, adding that every vehicle manufactured from 1996 upward are CNG compliant.
In his remark, the Vice Chairman, Park Management System PMS, in Oyo State, Alhaji Ademola Adeoye, thanked the Federal Government for the initiative and support to commercial transporters assuring that with time, the initiative will bring down the high cost of transportation fare.
“The moment the installation of the CNG on commercial buses, definitely the hike in transport fare will definitely come down,” he said.
Similarly, the state treasurer of the PMS, Kamorudeen Idowu, while also thanking President Tinubu, described it as a welcomed development.
I’m an interview, a private car owner, Dr ‘Wole Jayeola, who had converted his Toyota Corolla 2010 model two months ago, said using CNG is the best way to go for Nigerians to overcome the challenges of the high cost of fuel.
“Before I did it, I covered about 60 kilometers from my house to workplace daily and use to buy about N50,000 worth of fuel weekly to satisfy that need.”
“I must tell you that since I installed CNG, my average monthly spending for the same distance has been between N26,000 to N30, 000.”
He urged the Federal Government to subsidise the cost of conversion of vehicles to enable more commercial and private vehicle owners benefit from the initiative which he said, would bring down prices of goods and commodities in the long run.
