FG Unveils Plans for CNG Park at Ajaokuta Steel Company

In a significant move towards sustainable energy solutions, the Federal Government has announced its intentions to establish a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) park at the Ajaokuta Steel Company in Kogi State.

The revelation came from Prince Shuaibu Audu, the Minister of Steel Development, in a statement issued by his media aide, Lizzy Okoji, on Monday in Abuja.

The initiative, part of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aims to address the challenges faced by Nigerians and contribute to the global shift towards energy transition.

Minister Audu emphasized the government’s commitment to easing the burdens on citizens following the removal of fuel subsidy and aligning with international efforts towards sustainable and cost-effective energy sources.

“This demonstrates the president’s dedication to alleviating the hardships experienced by citizens due to the removal of fuel subsidy,” said Minister Audu. “Furthermore, it signifies our resolve to join the global movement towards green, sustainable, and cost-effective energy sources.”

Highlighting the strategic location of the proposed CNG park within the Ajaokuta Steel Company premises, Minister Audu explained its benefits, leveraging existing infrastructure such as the natural gas line from Warri to Ajaokuta, the Metallurgical Training Centre, engineering workshops, and the 10,000 housing estates in Ajaokuta and its environs.

Understanding CNG:
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) primarily consists of methane and serves as an alternative fuel for vehicles. It is compressed to less than one per cent of the volume it occupies at standard atmospheric pressure.

Presidential CNG Initiative (Pi-CNG):
Following the removal of fuel subsidy, President Bola Tinubu approved the establishment of the Presidential CNG Initiative (Pi-CNG) in August 2023. This intervention aims to alleviate difficulties faced by Nigerians by revolutionizing transportation.

The initiative plans to deploy over 11,500 new CNG-enabled vehicles and provide 55,000 conversion kits for existing PMS-dependent vehicles. It also seeks to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote a cleaner and healthier environment in Nigeria through the use of CNG-powered vehicles.