The Federal Government is stepping up efforts to expand the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in Nigeria’s transportation sector, with a target of having one million vehicles running on the alternative fuel by the end of 2027.
The initiative is part of the government’s strategy to reduce transportation expenses, ease the financial pressure on Nigerians and encourage the use of more affordable energy sources.
The Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (Pi-CNG & EV) is coordinating efforts to increase the number of vehicles converted to CNG, while promoting the adoption of gas-powered and electric mobility solutions across the country.
According to figures previously released by the initiative, more than 100,000 vehicles were already using CNG in Nigeria, alongside thousands of gas-powered tricycles and other commercial vehicles.
The government’s broader objective is to make CNG a more accessible alternative to petrol and diesel, particularly for commercial transport operators whose running costs have increased significantly.
Government Expands CNG Infrastructure
To support the planned expansion, the Federal Government is working with state governments, private companies and transport operators to increase access to vehicle conversion services and refuelling facilities.
The initiative also seeks to encourage more commercial transport businesses to switch to CNG, allowing operators to benefit from potentially lower fuel expenses.
However, the success of the programme will depend partly on the availability of conversion centres, affordable conversion equipment and reliable refuelling infrastructure across the country.
The government has also encouraged greater private-sector participation to strengthen investment in the CNG market and support the development of Nigeria’s alternative-fuel industry.
Transport Fare Reduction Remains a Priority
Beyond increasing the number of gas-powered vehicles, the initiative is intended to ensure that savings from lower operating expenses translate into more affordable fares for passengers.
The Federal Government has been working with state governments and other stakeholders to encourage the deployment of CNG-powered buses and electric vehicles for public transportation.
Some states have already introduced alternative-energy buses and other transport services as part of efforts to reduce commuting expenses.
The government believes that expanding these services could help commuters, traders, workers and businesses cope with rising transportation costs.
Challenges Could Affect Implementation
Despite the potential benefits, wider CNG adoption faces challenges, including the cost of converting vehicles, uneven access to refuelling stations and the need for trained technicians.
Addressing these concerns will be important to achieving the one-million-vehicle target and ensuring that the programme delivers lasting benefits to Nigerians.
If successfully implemented, the initiative could reduce the operating costs of commercial transport, encourage investment in the domestic gas sector and provide motorists with an alternative to conventional fuels.
The Federal Government’s target therefore extends beyond vehicle conversion: it also aims to build a transportation system in which cheaper energy options can help reduce the cost of moving people and goods across Nigeria.
