By Dare Akogun
The Kwara State government has taken a significant step towards promoting renewable energy by launching the conversion and installation of the first Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles in the state.
At the official launch of the Rolling Energy station in Ilorin, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced that the state government has successfully converted twenty of its petrol-engine vehicles to natural gas vehicles.
Speaking at the event, Governor AbdulRazaq highlighted that this initiative is a direct benefit of President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove the oil subsidy, which has historically contributed to excessive reliance on petrol.
He explained that the president has shown strong support for natural gas as an alternative to petrol, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s energy policy.
“This exercise reflects our commitment to leveraging the benefits of oil subsidy removal. Between last year and now, the president has endorsed natural gas over petrol, which is safer and more economical,” Governor AbdulRazaq stated.
He further noted that the conversion would create more job opportunities for the youth in the state.
The Chief Executive Officer of Rolling Energy, Mubarak Danbata, urged everyone to embrace the Presidential Conversion of Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi).
He assured that the Rolling Energy station is equipped to convert six petrol vehicles to CNG daily.
This initiative is part of Nigeria’s broader transition to renewable energy, aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and promoting cleaner energy sources.
The shift towards CNG is expected to reduce emissions, lower fuel costs, and enhance energy security.
This move aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and transition to sustainable energy solutions.
The conversion of vehicles to CNG is seen as a practical approach to achieving these goals, providing a cleaner, more affordable alternative to traditional petrol.
With continued support from the government and stakeholders, Nigeria’s journey towards renewable energy and environmental sustainability looks promising.
The launch in Kwara State sets a precedent for other states to follow, showcasing the tangible benefits of adopting renewable energy solutions and moving towards a greener future.