The Federal Government has finalized arrangements to ensure that fuel marketers install Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Pumps at filling stations nationwide.
In light of this, prospective retail license holders will now need to set up a CNG facility at their filling stations as a prerequisite for receiving final government approval.
The government has called on oil marketers to begin the process of establishing CNG points at their filling stations to enhance consumer access.
During a meeting with key oil marketing companies in Abuja on Tuesday, Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, revealed these plans.
The meeting aimed to address the persistent scarcity of petroleum products in the country and explore alternative solutions. Ahmed disclosed that a major focus of their discussions was the Federal Government’s initiative regarding Compressed Natural Gas.
He urged major marketers to consider incorporating CNG at their gas stations, as directed by President Bola Tinubu for all government vehicle purchases moving forward.
Ahmed emphasized that retail license applications will not be approved unless they include CNG facilities.
Describing the government’s push towards using CNG as a petrol alternative as revolutionary, Ahmed stated the government’s commitment to easing the economic burden of petrol consumption.
He emphasized the abundant availability of gas in the country and emphasized the necessity to invest in and produce CNG to benefit consumers.
The plans include gradually introducing CNG at petrol stations alongside other fuel types like petrol, diesel, and kerosene.
The government will also explore solar energy options to reduce diesel consumption for generating electricity.
While discussing the Dangote Refinery, there was reassurance that the government would not impose prices on petroleum products from the refinery, leaving it as a commercial decision.
Farouk explained that the recent petrol shortages in the country were due to logistical challenges faced by NNPC Limited in transporting products from offshore to onshore depots.
Plans to equip retail outlets and trucks with trackers to monitor product movement and volumes were also mentioned to improve national consumption estimates.
Representing the companies, the CEO of Matrix Energy, Mr. Abdukabir Adisa Aliu, expressed readiness to support the government’s efforts in diversifying energy sources for Nigerians and urged patience from the public.
From: Amadi Vincent
