Nigeria Launches Free Conversion of Petrol Vehicles to CNG in Bid to Cut Costs

The Nigerian government has begun the free conversion of petrol-powered commercial vehicles to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), with initial operations taking place in Ibadan, Oyo State, and Zaria, Kaduna State. This initiative forms part of President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to cushion the economic blow of the recent fuel subsidy removal and promote cleaner energy solutions.

In Ibadan, 100 commercial vehicles were converted across three locations on Saturday: Mobil filling station along the Ibadan-Lagos expressway, Automation Auto Gas at Podo Industrial Village, and Ajibode Retail Outlet on UI-Ojoo Road. At the launch, Louisa Afu, Business Development Executive of the Presidential CNG initiative, explained that the distribution of free conversion kits is central to the government’s strategy to provide relief from rising fuel costs.

“CNG is not only cheaper and more sustainable but also safer for the environment. Nigeria is blessed with abundant natural gas, and this conversion programme will allow vehicle owners to save on fuel costs while contributing to a cleaner environment,” Afu said, promising that the scheme would soon extend to other regions.

In Zaria, the Federal Government’s conversion programmebegan with 50 vehicles, primarily from the ranks of commercial drivers, including members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the National Association of Transport Owners. Dauda Suleiman, the initiative’s team lead at the National Institute for Transport Technology, explained that the conversion to CNG would drastically cut costs for drivers.

“A kilogram of CNG sells for as low as N230 in Abuja and N455 in Kaduna, much cheaper than petrol, and it also covers more distance,” Suleiman remarked, adding that CNG requires minimal maintenance and offers better fuel efficiency.

Suleiman noted that while 50 vehicles received free conversion kits, others would have access to the kits at subsidised rates, ensuring broad access to the programme. “We are committed to making this initiative accessible to all, and we’re confident that more refuelling stations will be established to meet demand,” he added.

The initiative has been met with widespread support. LawalAbdullahi, Chairman of the Zaria branch of the NURTW, commended the government’s decision, emphasising that the conversion would reduce operating costs for drivers and make transport more affordable for Nigerians.

“The conversion to CNG will significantly reduce our fuel costs, and we expect transport fares to fall as a result,” Abdullahi said. He revealed that 500 members were eager to convert their vehicles, with the union working closely with the government to ensure a smooth process.

In Edo State, the government underscored that the CNG conversion initiative aims to reduce transportation costs, thereby easing the cost of living. Tosin Coker, Head of Commercial at the Presidential CNG Initiative, highlighted that the project targets the conversion of one million vehicles nationwide at no cost to the owners.

Coker remarked, “This initiative is not only about providing cleaner fuel options but also about reducing the economic pressure on Nigerians. By bringing down the cost of transportation, we hope to see a positive ripple effect across the economy.”

The project is expected to expand further across Nigeria as the government intensifies efforts to promote CNG as a long-term, cost-effective solution to the country’s energy challenges.