By Oluwaseun Taiwo

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is becoming a pivotal part of Nigeria’s energy transformation, especially following the removal of fuel subsidies in 2023. The widespread adoption of CNG could have far-reaching impacts on the economy, environment, and global energy positioning. But what does this mean for Nigeria, and how does CNG stack up against traditional fossil fuels?

CNG is produced by compressing methane (natural gas) to less than 1% of its volume at standard atmospheric pressure. This compression makes it a highly efficient energy source, particularly for transportation, as vehicles running on CNG experience reduced wear and tear compared to those using conventional fuels like petrol or diesel. As a cleaner alternative, CNG also emits fewer pollutants, making it a promising solution for countries striving to reduce their carbon footprints.

Though the adoption of CNG in Nigeria began in 2010 with the launch of CNG-powered vehicles in Benin City by the Nigeria Independent Marketing Company (NIPCO), it wasn’t until 2023 that interest significantly ramped up. President Bola Tinubu’s government, in response to the removal of the petrol subsidy, has emphasized the need for alternative energy sources like CNG to ease the economic burden on citizens and reduce fuel costs.

 The shift to CNG could drastically reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petrol, potentially saving billions in foreign exchange. By building local infrastructure for CNG, Nigeria can also create jobs and stimulate local manufacturing. CNG produces significantly fewer carbon emissions compared to petrol or diesel. The environmental impacts of CNG are generally positive, particularly in comparison to conventional fossil fuels. CNG burns more cleanly than petrol or diesel, releasing fewer pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, which contribute to air pollution and respiratory issues. Challenges to CNG adoption are the lack of widespread infrastructure, such as refueling stations and vehicle conversion centers. Although CNG offers long-term savings, the initial cost of converting vehicles and setting up refueling infrastructure may deter some stakeholders. Many Nigerians are still unfamiliar with the benefits and workings of CNG. Without a robust public awareness campaign, misconceptions about CNG may persist, hindering its widespread acceptance. However, methane, the primary component of CNG, is a potent greenhouse gas if leaked into the atmosphere. Therefore, strict monitoring of CNG production and distribution infrastructure is essential to minimize leaks and ensure that the overall environmental benefits outweigh potential risks.

The adoption of CNG in Nigeria represents an essential step toward energy independence and environmental sustainability. However, the success of this initiative depends on a number of factors, including the government’s ability to rapidly expand infrastructure, incentivize stakeholders, and create public awareness. While the environmental benefits are clear, the government must also focus on minimizing methane leakage to maximize the positive impact of CNG.

 CNG is a pragmatic solution to Nigeria’s current energy challenges, but it should not be seen as a silver bullet. It must be part of a broader strategy that includes renewable energy sources like solar and wind, as well as improvements in energy efficiency across industries. If managed correctly, the shift to CNG could herald a new era of cleaner, more sustainable energy use in Nigeria’s transportation sector and beyond.

CNG has the potential to transform Nigeria’s transport sector by offering a cheaper, cleaner, and more sustainable alternative to traditional fuels. With strong government initiatives and partnerships already in place, the future of CNG in Nigeria looks promising. However, the challenges of infrastructure, public awareness, and methane leakage must be addressed to fully realize its potential. As Nigeria continues its journey toward energy independence and environmental sustainability, CNG could play a pivotal role in shaping a more resilient and eco-friendly future.