Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, says the Federal Government’s push to expand Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative transport fuel is helping to ease the economic pressure that followed the removal of the petrol subsidy.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Wednesday, Ekpo acknowledged that the subsidy removal had understandably raised concerns about rising transportation and food costs, along with broader pressure on household incomes and businesses.
He said the government has responded with practical measures, chief among them the drive to make CNG a cheaper, cleaner and more sustainable alternative for transportation nationwide.
According to Ekpo, the Presidential Initiative on CNG (Pi-CNG), launched in 2023, has attracted more than $2 billion in investment for CNG infrastructure and the wider value chain, a sign of growing confidence in Nigeria’s natural gas resources as an affordable energy option.
“CNG is no longer simply an alternative for the future. It is already helping transport operators, businesses and vehicle owners reduce fuel costs and improve the sustainability of their operations, with the potential to translate these savings into lower fares and logistics costs for Nigerians,” he said.
Ekpo said the goal extends beyond increasing the number of CNG vehicles and refuelling stations, toward building an ecosystem that lowers transportation costs, supports livelihoods, eases pressure on household incomes and boosts productivity across the economy.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued backing of the initiative, particularly a recent directive to add 500 CNG refuelling stations, bringing the planned national network to 1,000 stations.
He also praised state governors who have partnered with the programme and urged others to key into it on behalf of their residents and commuters.
“As Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), I remain committed to working with State Governments, investors, Pi CNG, MDGIF, transport operators and other stakeholders to deepen domestic gas utilisation and expand CNG infrastructure,” Ekpo said.
The minister also used the statement to congratulate Vice President Kashim Shettima on his 60th birthday, describing the milestone as a celebration of a life defined by service, leadership, sacrifice, patriotism and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.
“Your Excellency, your wealth of experience and contributions to national development continue to be invaluable to our nation. As Chairman of the National Economic Council, your leadership remains critical to advancing the economic transformation agenda of the Renewed Hope Administration under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.
Ekpo wished the Vice President continued good health, wisdom, strength and greater accomplishments in the years ahead, adding, “Happy 60th Birthday, Your Excellency.”
