The Nigerian Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI) on Monday announced that 150 new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refuelling stations will be built across the country over the next 18 months.
This update was shared by the Chief Executive of PCNGI, Michael Oluwagbemi, during a press briefing at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The plan is part of the government’s efforts to make CNG more accessible and affordable to Nigerians as an alternative to petrol. Oluwagbemi said private companies have been brought in to support the rollout. So far, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) has opened 12 stations, with 8 more expected this quarter. Approval has also been given for 100 more stations over the next 18–24 months.
Other companies like NIPCO, Bovas, and AY Shafa are also making progress. NIPCO has 22 stations already running and 8 under construction. Bovas has 8 sites in the works, and AY Shafa has completed one, with 9 more being built. Firms such as Ibile Oil and Gas, MBH, and Mikano are also investing in both small and large-scale stations.
The PCNGI also responded to concerns about a CNG vehicle explosion in Benin City, Edo State, which happened in October last year. Three people were injured in the incident. Oluwagbemi explained that the explosion was caused by the illegal use of poorly made CNG cylinders. He said those responsible were arrested.
To avoid such accidents in future, the government is launching the Nigerian Gas Vehicle Monitoring System (NGVMS), which will ensure only approved vehicles with certified tanks are refuelled. This system is expected to be in place by the end of the year.
Oluwagbemi also stressed the importance of safety, saying the government has worked closely with regulatory bodies like the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) to set clear safety rules since March 2024. He urged all participants in the sector to follow these rules closely.
