The collaboration between the Federal Government and Portland Gas for the construction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion sites across the country took a significant step forward at the groundbreaking ceremony held at Portland Gas Green Park this week.
Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), announced the government’s approval for Portland Gas to initiate the construction of CNG conversion sites. The NMDPRA, represented by Lukman Cardoso, emphasized its commitment to promoting cleaner fuels such as CNG, LPG, and others for both domestic and industrial purposes.
The facility, strategically located in Lagos’s Ojota area, aims to offer cost-effective alternative fuels to households and industries in response to the growing population in the region. Lukman Cardoso highlighted the innovative approach of establishing a one-stop facility for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and Electric Vehicle Charging services, praising it as a testament to Portland Gas’s dedication to innovation and environmental stewardship.
Olu Verheijen, the Special Adviser on Energy to President Tinubu, commended the collaboration between the Federal Government’s compressed natural gas initiative and Portland Gas. The partnership seeks to transition towards an environmentally conscious and economically sustainable energy landscape, creating new job opportunities, diversifying the economy, and enhancing energy independence.
Folajimi Mohammed, the founder of Portland Gas, addressed the escalating fuel costs due to the removal of subsidies and the regulation of petroleum product prices. He emphasized the urgency of exploring alternative fuel sources such as CNG and Electric Vehicles (EV) for transportation. Portland Gas’s projects include eco-friendly CNG generators, vehicle conversions from petrol or diesel to CNG, and the establishment of training centers.
Mohammed highlighted the affordability of CNG compared to traditional fuels, emphasizing significant cost savings, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, decreased pollution, and enhanced safety. This reflects a positive shift towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly fuel options.
Key points to note include the Federal Government’s disclosure of the cost of CNG per litre at N250 and President Tinubu’s commitment to expedite the procurement process for new CNG conversion kits. He pledged the availability of these kits soon, facilitating the conversion of existing vehicles to use CNG. Efforts are also underway to establish training centers and workshops nationwide, aiming to equip transport operators and entrepreneurs with the necessary skills for this innovative transportation landscape.
