​FG to Deploy 150 New CNG Refueling Stations Nationwide​

​FG to Deploy 150 New CNG Refueling Stations Nationwide​

In a bold move to transform Nigeria’s transportation sector, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) has unveiled plans to establish 150 new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refueling stations nationwide within the next 18 months. This ambitious endeavor aims to provide Nigerians with a cleaner and more affordable alternative to traditional fuels, leveraging the country’s abundant natural gas reserves.​

Michael Oluwagbemi, the CEO of PCNGI, emphasized the initiative’s dedication to enhancing CNG accessibility during a press conference at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. He stated, “To further bolster this base infrastructure, we have co-opted our private sector partners to deploy over 150 new refueling locations in the next 18 months.” This collaborative approach underscores the government’s commitment to public-private partnerships in achieving its energy objectives.​

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has already made significant strides by commissioning 12 CNG stations in Abuja and Lagos, with an additional eight stations slated for completion within the current quarter. Furthermore, NNPC has secured approval for 100 more stations, aiming for completion within the next 18 to 24 months. Complementing these efforts, NIPCO Gas Limited has imported equipment for 32 daughter stations, with 22 currently operational and eight under construction. ​

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Other industry players, including Bovas, Ay Shafa, Ibile Oil and Gas, and Mikano, are also contributing to the expansion by constructing their own CNG refueling sites. This collective effort is poised to significantly enhance the nation’s CNG infrastructure, offering motorists a viable alternative to petrol.​

Addressing safety concerns, particularly referencing an incident in Benin last year involving illegal fabrication of CNG cylinders, Oluwagbemi assured that measures are being implemented to prevent such occurrences. He highlighted the forthcoming Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System (NGVMS), designed to ensure that only properly labeled and accredited vehicles with certified tanks will be refueled. “With the NGVMS in place, that incident will be avoided,” he affirmed, noting that the system is expected to be operational by year-end.​

The PCNGI is also prioritizing regulatory standards in collaboration with agencies such as the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) and the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC). Oluwagbemi urged all stakeholders to ensure full compliance with safety and security regulations, reinforcing the initiative’s commitment to safeguarding lives and investments in the sector.​

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This initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to harness Nigeria’s vast gas resources for economic development. By promoting CNG adoption, the administration aims to reduce transportation costs, lower carbon emissions, and create employment opportunities. The PCNGI has set ambitious targets, including converting over 150,000 vehicles to CNG by the end of 2024 and financing 200,000 new CNG buses and tricycles across Nigeria by 2027. ​
Despite the promising outlook, challenges remain. The limited number of conversion centers and public skepticism have hindered rapid adoption. However, the government’s commitment to expanding infrastructure and ensuring safety standards aims to address these concerns and facilitate a smoother transition to CNG. ​

The deployment of 150 new CNG refueling stations represents a significant step toward diversifying Nigeria’s energy mix and promoting sustainable transportation solutions. Through collaborative efforts between the government and private sector, this initiative holds the potential to deliver economic, environmental, and social benefits to Nigerians nationwide.