As petrol prices keep rising across Nigeria, transport costs have also gone up, making life harder for many families. Because of this, people in the oil and gas sector have shared different opinions about the Federal Government’s plan to provide over 100,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion kits across the country.
The plan is meant to reduce the effect of high petrol prices by giving Nigerians a cheaper fuel option. While many people agree it is a good idea, some say it may not fully solve the country’s fuel problems in the long run.
A former President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Chinedu Okoronkwo, said the CNG kits could help reduce the pressure on consumers, but may not completely stop fuel price increases.
“If properly implemented, it will help a lot. It may not solve the problem completely, but it will reduce the effect of rising fuel prices,” he said.
Labour leaders in the oil and gas sector also said the success of the plan will depend on how easy it is for people to access the service.
In the same way, an elder statesman from Rumuorlumeni community and energy expert, Charles Wobo, called for more CNG conversion centres across the country. He said the centres should be fairly distributed so that more people can benefit.
“If you want to reduce the effect, you must ensure fairness. Areas with more people should be given priority, and there must be enough centres to meet demand,” he said.
Civil society groups also shared their views, asking the government to stay committed to the plan. The Executive Director of “We the People,” Ken Henshaw, described it as a good and timely idea.
He said using different energy sources could help Nigeria depend less on petrol. He also remembered a similar effort in the past.
“It is a good idea with a wider purpose. It can help solve part of the energy problem we are facing. Some years ago, a similar plan was introduced in Abuja and other cities, and many people changed their vehicles to CNG. It made a difference, but it did not last. It is good to see the government trying it again,” he said.
Although the CNG plan brings hope of lower fuel costs, many believe its success will depend on proper implementation, easy access, and the government’s commitment to continue the programme.
