President Bola Tinubu has given his approval for the establishment of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians by reducing energy expenses.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to transform the transportation sector by targeting the conversion of over 11,500 new vehicles to CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) and providing 55,000 CNG conversion kits for existing PMS-dependent (Premium Motor Spirit) vehicles.In a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, it was emphasized that the initiative would also promote local manufacturing, assembly, and substantial job creation in accordance with the presidential directive.
The PCNGI comprises a Comprehensive Adoption Strategy, including the following components: Empowering Workshops Programme, Nationwide Network of Workshops, and Local Assembly and Job Creation.Tinubu stressed that these key elements of the initiative, with an initial focus on mass transit systems and student hubs, would substantially reduce transportation costs for the general public in the short term.
The PCNGI aims to seamlessly integrate CNG utility into the current midstream and downstream energy value chain to ensure its sustainability.The president highlighted that the PCNGI would facilitate the establishment of workshops across all geopolitical zones and states, providing essential kits and comprehensive training for newly employed personnel, thereby creating opportunities for technical skill development and employment.Tinubu also noted that the nationwide network of workshops, to be established under this initiative, would ensure widespread access to and utilization of CNG technology and expertise, benefiting vehicle owners and the Nigerian economy as a whole.Key strategic objectives under the PCNGI include:
- Developing new stakeholder-operated Intrastate Mass Transit systems utilizing CNG.
- Assisting states in adopting new CNG buses for their Intrastate Mass Transit networks, including conversion, retrofitting, and new purchases.
- Deploying CNG buses through existing Private Mass Transit operators, including innovative financing programs.
- Encouraging investment in CNG processing, distribution, and utilization through incentives.
- Providing training and technology transfer to support the After-Sales Services and maintenance sub-industry, leading to sustainable job creation.
The President emphasized that the focus on assembling CNG-enabled vehicles within the country would stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and enhance the nation’s automotive manufacturing capabilities.Furthermore, it underscores the administration’s commitment to a cleaner environment by reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy security through the use of domestic natural gas resources.
SOURCE: g9ja.com