As Nigerians seek cost-effective and sustainable energy solutions, the country’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion capacity has surged by 2,500%. This was disclosed by Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), during the inaugural Petroleum Industry Stakeholders’ Forum organized by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources in Abuja.
The rapid growth is driven by increased private sector participation, with technology manufacturing firms like Atlas Copco playing a crucial role. Olusola Aluko, General Manager of Atlas Copco Nigeria, highlighted the company’s commitment to advancing CNG adoption. “The increased capacity for CNG conversion is a testament to the impact that collaboration between government, industry, and technology leaders can have on solving Nigeria’s energy challenges,” he said.
Aluko further emphasized Atlas Copco’s contributions: “We are proud to be at the forefront of expanding CNG access in Nigeria. Through our innovative technologies, we are making CNG adoption more efficient, sustainable, and accessible for businesses and individuals. Our goal is to support Nigeria’s transition to cleaner energy sources and drive long-term energy security.”
CNG demand in Nigeria has surged in the last two years, fueled by volatile fuel prices, environmental concerns, and government initiatives promoting cleaner alternatives. Many industries and businesses are increasingly turning to CNG as a cost-effective replacement for diesel and petrol, reshaping the country’s energy landscape.
Despite this progress, challenges persist, including inadequate gas compression facilities, limited storage systems, and a sparse network of fueling stations. Experts stress the need for significant investments to scale up infrastructure and sustain growth. A report by the Nigerian Energy Transition Office underscores the urgency of expanding CNG refueling stations and strengthening distribution networks to meet demand by 2030. It also highlights the vital role of public-private partnerships in ensuring long-term sector sustainability.
Beyond its economic benefits, CNG adoption is crucial for Nigeria’s environmental goals. As the country grapples with climate change, cleaner energy sources are more essential than ever. CNG significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants compared to traditional fossil fuels. Additionally, increasing CNG usage can lower Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuels, bolstering energy security and saving billions of naira in foreign exchange.
For Nigeria to achieve its strategic energy goals, greater private-sector involvement is imperative. Companies like Atlas Copco bring essential expertise and financial capacity to accelerate sector development. Strengthening partnerships between the government and private enterprises will be key to driving Nigeria’s energy transition and ensuring a more sustainable future.
