Investment in Nigeria’s natural gas development and utilization through Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure projects currently stands at over two billion Naira, following the information released by the Nigerian Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo.
The Minister recalled event heralded, the removal of the petrol subsidy, which understandably has sparked concerns about rising transportation and food costs, as well as the wider pressure on household incomes and businesses, necessitated the Federal Government’s pursuance of practical measures to cushion these effects, including the expansion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cheaper, cleaner and more sustainable alternative for transportation across the country.
The Minister states that “Since the launch of the Presidential Initiative on CNG (Pi-CNG) in 2023, we have continued to see growing investment and participation in the sector. More than $2 billion has already been secured in investments for CNG infrastructure and the wider value chain, reflecting increasing confidence in the potential of our abundant natural gas resources to provide a more affordable energy option for Nigerians.”
According to Ekpo, CNG is no longer simply an alternative for the future. It is already helping transport operators, businesses and vehicle owners reduce fuel costs and improve the sustainability of their operations, with the potential to translate these savings into lower fares and logistics costs for Nigerians.
“Our objective goes beyond increasing the number of CNG vehicles and refuelling stations. We want to build an ecosystem that makes transportation more affordable, supports livelihoods, eases pressure on household incomes, and improves productivity across our economy.
“I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued support for the CNG initiative, particularly his recent directive for an additional 500 CNG refuelling stations, bringing the planned national network to 1,000 stations. This will significantly expand access to CNG and accelerate its adoption across the country,” He stated.
“I also commend State Governors who have embraced the programme through investments and partnerships, and encourage those yet to do so to key into the initiative in the interest of their people and the commuting public,” Ekpo added
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), reiterated his commitment to strategically foster partnerships with State Governments, investors, Pi-CNG, MDGIF, transport operators and other stakeholders to deepen domestic gas utilisation and expand CNG infrastructure.
