The Federal Government has announced plans to extend the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered transport scheme to states across Nigeria. This initiative, introduced to alleviate the burden of high fuel prices and reduce the country's reliance on petroleum products, represents a significant step in promoting cleaner and more affordable energy alternatives in the transportation sector.

The scheme, which initially launched in select urban centers, aims to encourage the adoption of CNG-powered vehicles by providing subsidies, tax incentives, and infrastructure support. As part of the rollout, state governments are expected to collaborate with the Federal Government in creating refueling stations, upgrading workshops, and training personnel to service CNG-powered vehicles.

Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa'idu Alkali, highlighted that the move aligns with Nigeria's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to sustainable energy solutions. He noted that CNG-powered transport could cut operating costs for drivers and businesses while improving air quality in densely populated areas.

However, experts warn that the success of this initiative will depend on addressing several challenges, including the current limited availability of CNG fueling stations, public awareness, and the high initial cost of converting vehicles to run on CNG. These issues underscore the importance of policy consistency and robust stakeholder engagement to ensure widespread adoption.

As the Federal Government continues to advocate for clean energy alternatives, the extension of the CNG-powered transport scheme is expected to play a pivotal role in Nigeria's energy transition and economic diversification strategies. Stakeholders and industry players are optimistic that this expansion will bring much-needed relief to citizens and businesses affected by rising energy costs.