In demonstration of its commitment to providing alternative energy for Nigerians, the Federal Government has unveiled the roll out of the National Gas Expansion Programme. The launch which took place at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and selected filling stations across 36 states of the federation, marked the official entry of the three streams of Autogas; Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), and Liquefied Petroleum Gas) as energy options for industrial, transportation and domestic use.
In his address at the launch, the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva said the administration of President Mohammadu Buhari is dedicated to implementing programmes that are focused on improving the life of its citizens, creating jobs, building indigenous technical expertise and stimulating other sectors of the economy to address the problem of unemployment amongst its teeming youths.
He noted that the shift to Gas is a testament to President Mohammadu Buhari’s commitment to the development of Nigeria’s Gas resources, adding that his administration will continue to strengthen the gas value chain as it’s central to the transformation of the Nigerian economy.
The Minister remarked that the Ministry of Petroleum Resources is focusing on the development of skills, technology and manpower, the growth of Autogas, development of infrastructure and making of Gas a top revenue earner for our country as encapsulated in the National Gas Policy.
Speaking further, Sylva posited that the availability of Autogas as an alternative fuel will afford Nigerians cheaper, cleaner and eco-friendly option, with lesser impact on automobiles and power generators.
In his address, the Group Managing Director, NNPC, Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari informed that CNG and LNG are cheaper and cleaner alternatives to petrol. He added that trillions of Naira was expended on the hitherto subsidy regime which did not benefit the ordinary Nigerian. Kyari stated that the collapsed of the global economy which was necessitated by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic made subsidy payment unsustainable.
Other highlights of the event were the presentation of 5 set of CNG powered mass transit buses to the leadership of organized Labour and commissioning of an Autogas dispensing Station. The Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva who presented the buses said in the next phase, over 100 buses will be released while other phases will follow.
In his vote of thanks, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Mr. Bitrus Bako Nabasu, mni thanked President Mohammadu Buhari for joining the event virtually in spite of his busy schedule.
Enefaa Bob-Manuel
Deputy Director (Information)
Ministry of Petroleum Resources
