FG’s New CNG System Powers Safer, Greener Mobility

As Nigeria intensifies efforts to embrace cleaner and more affordable energy alternatives, the Federal Government has unveiled a new monitoring platform designed to regulate the conversion of vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and eliminate the use of substandard equipment.

The move marks a significant step in the country’s energy transition plan and underscores the government’s determination to ensure safety, accountability, and environmental integrity in the growing CNG sector.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, announced the initiative during the launch of the Nigerian Gas Vehicle Monitoring System (NGVMS) held on Thursday at an NNPC Retail Station in Abuja.

Ekpo explained that the new system will serve as a digital framework to monitor every stage of the CNG conversion and refuelling process, ensuring that only vehicles converted in accredited workshops using certified kits can access approved filling stations.

“The NGVMS will provide full oversight — from the point of vehicle conversion to refuelling — guaranteeing the safety of citizens and preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s CNG ecosystem,” the minister stated.

He added that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Decade of Gas Initiative, both of which aim to reposition gas as Nigeria’s primary fuel for economic growth, cleaner energy, and industrial development.

A statement by his spokesperson, Louis Ibah, described the launch as a milestone in the government’s efforts to encourage CNG adoption and enhance public confidence in the safety of gas-powered transport.

The introduction of the NGVMS comes amid a broader national push to shift away from petrol dependence following the removal of fuel subsidies in 2023. The government has since promoted CNG as a cheaper, cleaner, and sustainable alternative, particularly for mass transportation.

The Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on CNG (PiCNG), Ismaeel Ahmed, revealed that more than $1 billion in private sector investments have flowed into Nigeria’s CNG value chain since the programme was launched.

He added that several new conversion and refuelling stations would be commissioned across the country before the end of the year, expanding access and supporting the government’s clean energy goals.

“This project has proven that Nigeria’s transition to CNG is not only achievable but also commercially attractive,” Ahmed said. “The private sector is already driving investment and innovation in the gas value chain.”

Leaders of major transport unions who attended the launch expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for the PiCNG programme, noting that it has helped reduce operational costs and stabilise transport fares since its introduction.

According to them, over one million free CNG kits, buses, and tricycles have already been distributed under the initiative, enabling drivers to cut fuel expenses and ease the financial pressure on commuters.

They, however, urged the government to expand the network of CNG refuelling and conversion stations nationwide to make the energy alternative more accessible.

“Commercial transport operators should be prioritised in the CNG rollout because they move the majority of Nigerians daily,” one union representative said. “Expanding access will multiply the programme’s economic benefits.”

Experts say the introduction of the NGVMS could transform Nigeria’s vehicle conversion landscape by enforcing quality standards, improving transparency, and preventing safety lapses caused by uncertified kits.

The system is expected to strengthen regulatory oversight and restore public trust, especially as more Nigerians turn to gas-powered vehicles in response to rising petrol prices.

Beyond enhancing safety, the initiative is part of Nigeria’s long-term strategy to meet global climate goals and reduce carbon emissions in line with its commitments under the Paris Agreement.

For the Federal Government, the launch of the NGVMS represents not just a technological upgrade, but a crucial step toward a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable transport future — one that could redefine how millions of Nigerians commute in the years to come.