NIPCO Plc has reaffirmed its support for President Bola Tinubu’s initiatives aimed at reforming Nigeria’s petroleum industry, particularly emphasizing the expansion of the country’s downstream gas infrastructure. During a recent meeting at the Aso Villa in Abuja, NIPCO’s Senior Executive, Mr. Ramesh Kansagra, articulated the company’s commitment to advancing the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly fuel source. Kansagra indicated that NIPCO recognized the advantages of CNG many years ago, laying the groundwork for a shift in fuel use by establishing infrastructure that would enable motorists to transition to gas-powered vehicles.
This historical understanding of CNG’s potential naturally complements the current administration’s objectives, particularly the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative. This program has significantly improved access to CNG for transportation, making it more feasible for consumers to shift from traditional gasoline to a cleaner energy alternative. Kansagra highlighted that NIPCO’s proactive initiatives resonate well with Tinubu’s agenda, demonstrating a unified approach toward enhancing the nation’s energy framework while focusing on sustainability and economic viability.
Central to NIPCO’s strategy is the ongoing development of a 100-kilometer gas pipeline from Lagos to Ibadan, an ambitious $100 million project designed to enhance the availability and accessibility of gas throughout the region. This infrastructural investment not only aims to meet a growing demand for cleaner energy but also aligns seamlessly with the Tinubu administration’s reformative strategies. By building this pipeline, NIPCO intends to broaden the reach of cleaner energy sources, enabling more motorists and various industries to opt for natural gas, which is increasingly recognized as a preferable fuel option.
Kansagra extolled the government’s progressive energy policies, accentuating their timeliness in light of global energy trends favoring cleaner fuels. He noted that Tinubu’s reforms represent a pivotal step toward reducing Nigeria’s dependence on fossil fuels, thereby supporting the country’s environmental objectives. This strategic shift is not merely about policy; it stands to significantly enhance Nigeria’s economic sustainability by fostering an increased reliance on domestic energy production rather than imported fuels.
One of the most compelling aspects of transitioning to CNG involves its cost-effectiveness. Kansagra pointed out that motorists can expect substantial savings, with CNG priced at N230 per standard cubic meter (SCM) compared to petrol, which costs around N1,000 per litre. This significant price difference not only offers a more budget-friendly alternative for drivers but also encourages broader adoption of CNG in the automotive sector. Furthermore, since CNG is sourced domestically, it reduces the country’s current reliance on imported petrol, addressing both economic and energy security concerns.
In conclusion, NIPCO’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Tinubu administration’s petroleum reforms is reflective of a larger vision for Nigeria’s energy future—one that embraces cleaner alternatives and fosters economic resilience. Through strategic projects like the Lagos-Ibadan gas pipeline and the promotion of CNG usage, NIPCO is playing a crucial role in facilitating a transition toward sustainable energy solutions. The company’s alignment with governmental objectives resonates with a global paradigm shift towards cleaner fuels, positioning Nigeria to meet both its environmental aspirations and economic needs moving forward.
