CNG: Abiodun laments exorbitant cost of conversion

From  Our Correspondent

Abeokuta, March 27, ’25 (TNZ) Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, on Thursday, lamented the exorbitant cost of converting vehicles using fossil fuel to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

TheNewsZenith quotes the governor as saying the high cost of conversion is discouraging many motorists from switching to the CNG.

Abiodun made the remarks during the third edition of the Chemical Handlers and Users Workshop, organised by the State Ministry of Environment in Abeokuta.

The Deputy Governor, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, represented the governor at the workshop.

TheNewsZenith reports that the theme of the workshop is “Clean Energy for a Healthier State: Reducing Pollution through Sustainable Energy Solutions”.

Abiodun noted that reducing pollution through sustainable energy solutions was crucial in tackling environmental challenges.

“CNG, produced from natural gas, burns cleaner and reduces emissions from industries, households and farms.”

The governor encouraged chemical handlers, industries, farmers, and individuals to embrace CNG for its environmental benefits and contribution to climate sustainability.

He stressed that CNG remained largely untapped.

“As of May 2024, only 131 CNG conversion centres existed nationwide, with a high concentration in Ogun.

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“Concerns over conversion costs, refuelling and technical expertise remain major barriers to adopting CNG,” TheNewsZenith quotes Abiodun as saying.

According to him, there is a need to give incentives to help industries, farmers, and chemical handlers overcome concerns about the cost of conversion.

The state, he said, is addressing these challenges by working with private investors to provide financing options and expand CNG infrastructure.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to environmental stewardship through initiatives like the Waste-to-Resource Revolution and the Electric Mobility Leadership programme.

Speaking earlier, Ola Oresanya, the Commissioner for Environment, said transitioning to clean energy was a shared responsibility.

Oressanya said this requires cooperation from all stakeholders.

“We urge chemical handlers, industry partners and farmers to adopt clean energy technologies.

“They should embrace circular economy practices and prioritise environmental compliance.

“Our sincere partnership and commitment will build a legacy of sustainability and economic growth. It will also improve public health for future generations,” he said. (TNZ)