A full tank from Lagos to Ibadan in a regular car costs about N50,000, whereas using CNG would only cost around N1,900.
The Risks of Substandard Products and Inadequate Installations in CNG Usage – Insights from AHA Strategies CEO
In a recent discussion with Ajibade Omape, Mr. Ademola Adigun, CEO of AHA Strategies, explored the growing popularity of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative fuel source in Nigeria.
What’s Driving the Adoption of CNG in Nigeria?
The primary motivator for using CNG is cost. It is significantly cheaper than petrol and diesel, making it an attractive option for many. For instance, filling a tank with CNG costs just a fraction of what petrol costs, allowing for substantial savings over long distances. While there are environmental benefits to consider, the driving force remains the economic advantage.
Adigun emphasizes that CNG does not replace petrol or diesel; it offers an alternative for drivers. Even after conversion to CNG, users still have the option to utilize their traditional fuel sources.
Is CNG a Practical Choice for Everyday Nigerians?
While the cost-effectiveness of CNG is clear—traveling from Lagos to Ibadan can cost as little as N1,900 with CNG compared to N50,000 with petrol—the feasibility of using CNG depends largely on location. Urban centers like Lagos and Abuja have the necessary infrastructure, while rural areas may not have access to CNG refueling stations, limiting its practicality for those residents.
Impact on Engine Performance and Maintenance
When it comes to vehicle performance, Mr. Adigun asserts that CNG does not negatively affect engine performance or durability. Maintenance routines and component quality play a more significant role than the type of fuel used. Engine parts such as oil and spark plugs are crucial for longevity, regardless of whether the vehicle runs on CNG, petrol, or diesel.
Environmental Considerations
Although CNG is often perceived as a cleaner fuel, Adigun clarifies that it shouldn’t be labeled a clean energy solution. Instead, it represents a practical choice for Nigeria, given the country’s abundant natural gas reserves. CNG combustion tends to produce fewer emissions than petrol or diesel, making it a more environmentally friendly option in that regard.
Infrastructure Challenges for CNG Adoption
One of the significant barriers to widespread CNG adoption is the lack of adequate infrastructure. Despite Nigeria’s vast gas reserves, the distribution network for CNG is still underdeveloped. Key players like NIPCO are working on expanding gas pipelines, but rural areas remain underserved, complicating the refueling process for those living outside urban zones.
The initial conversion costs also pose a challenge, ranging from N600,000 to over N1 million depending on the vehicle type, which may deter potential users.
Government Policies for CNG Promotion
To facilitate greater adoption of CNG, Mr. Adigun suggests that the government could implement subsidies, particularly aimed at public transport operators. By making conversion more financially accessible, the government could significantly lower transportation costs for the general public.
The Long-Term Outlook for CNG
While CNG offers immediate cost benefits, Adigun views it as a transitional solution rather than a long-term fix. With the global shift toward renewable energy, particularly in the automotive sector, the future of fossil fuels, including CNG, may be limited.
CNG’s Role in Nigeria’s Energy Landscape
As of now, CNG constitutes a small portion of Nigeria’s fuel consumption. However, Mr. Adigun predicts that as petrol prices continue to rise, more drivers in urban areas may turn to CNG, potentially increasing its share in the energy mix over the next decade.
Learning from Global Examples
While many countries utilize CNG, Adigun notes that it has not been adopted on a large scale in any specific nation. He highlights that CNG has historically been a secondary option rather than a primary fuel source.
The Impact of Dangote’s Refinery on Fuel Consumption
The operations of Dangote’s refinery are expected to improve the local market for crude oil, potentially reducing Nigeria’s dependency on imported petrol. If successful, this could enhance the country’s energy security and stabilize fuel prices for consumers.
In conclusion, while CNG presents opportunities for cost savings and reduced emissions, it also faces significant challenges that must be addressed for it to become a more integral part of Nigeria’s energy future.
