The Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles has stepped up its public enlightenment campaign, promoting Compressed Natural Gas as a cleaner, safer and more cost effective alternative fuel for transportation in Nigeria.
The Chief Operating Officer of the initiative, Mr Tosin Coker, stated this during a media sensitisation programme held for journalists in Port Harcourt on Friday.
He explained that the programme was designed to deepen public understanding of natural gas usage in transport and support the Federal Government’s push for wider adoption of CNG across the country.
Coker noted that petrol and diesel vehicles can be converted to run on CNG through the installation of approved conversion kits and storage systems, enabling users to alternate between fuel types where necessary.
He added that after conversion, motorists are encouraged to prioritise CNG use due to its lower cost, environmental benefits and reduced engine wear.
He also clarified the difference between CNG and Liquefied Natural Gas, explaining that LNG is typically used in factory fitted systems for heavy duty transport operations such as trucks and rail services.
According to him, the Federal Government’s support for CNG adoption follows the removal of fuel subsidies and the need to provide a more affordable and sustainable energy option for transportation.
He further stated that Nigeria’s large natural gas reserves make CNG less exposed to global oil price volatility and geopolitical disruptions that often affect petrol and diesel supply.
Coker disclosed that government agencies are being encouraged to transition their vehicle fleets to CNG powered alternatives in order to reduce operational costs.
He said that more than 100,000 vehicles have already been converted nationwide, with ongoing efforts to expand awareness and infrastructure in Rivers State.
On safety concerns, he explained that although CNG is flammable under certain conditions, its high ignition threshold makes it relatively safe when properly handled and regulated.
He also revealed that Rivers State currently hosts between seven and eight accredited CNG conversion centres certified by the relevant national automotive regulatory authority, with plans underway to increase the number.
Speaking at the event, Mr Opeyemi Balogun, representing the Decade of Gas Initiative, said the engagement was aimed at improving journalists’ understanding of the oil and gas sector to promote accurate and balanced reporting.
He noted that the Port Harcourt session was part of a broader series of media trainings conducted since 2025, following earlier editions in Lagos and Abuja.
Balogun urged media practitioners to prioritise accuracy and professionalism in their coverage of energy related issues, while reaffirming the initiative’s commitment to continuous engagement with the press to support informed reporting.