Faced with a cost of living crisis exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidies, Nigeria is exploring energy alternatives to ease the economic burden on its citizens. The government has launched an initiative to convert more than a million vehicles to run on compressed natural gas (CNG) within three years, capitalizing on the country's vast gas reserves.
This transition to CNG promises to reduce transport costs by almost 50%, providing a breath of fresh air to Nigerians facing rising fuel prices. However, the implementation of this initiative encounters major obstacles. Current infrastructure is insufficient, with a limited number of CNG refueling stations, forcing some drivers to travel long distances to refuel. Additionally, the high cost of vehicle conversion and limited public awareness hinder the mass adoption of this technology.
Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to promoting CNG as a viable and environmentally friendly alternative. Investments of $200 million have been committed to support this transition, with plans to expand the network of refueling stations and train specialist technicians. Awareness initiatives are also underway to allay fears about the safety of CNG and inform the public of its economic and environmental benefits.
