Juliet Ezeh
President Bola Tinubu has approved the expansion of Nigeria’s compressed natural gas programme to include electric vehicles, in a move aimed at reducing transportation costs and easing pressure on households following the removal of petrol subsidies.
The rebranded initiative, now known as the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (PiCNG & EV), is expected to serve as the Federal Government’s central framework for driving affordable and cleaner mobility across the country.
According to a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the expanded mandate reflects a dual approach to addressing rising energy costs while accelerating Nigeria’s transition to sustainable transport systems.
Under the new structure, the programme will scale up the rollout of compressed natural gas infrastructure, including refuelling stations and vehicle conversion schemes, while simultaneously introducing electric mobility through the deployment of charging networks nationwide.
The Presidency said the policy is designed to provide Nigerians with cheaper alternatives to petrol-powered transportation, leveraging the country’s vast gas reserves and emerging interest in electric vehicle adoption.
To fast-track implementation, the President has directed immediate nationwide access to vehicle conversion kits, with a financing model to be developed in partnership with CreditCorp Nigeria and other financial institutions.
The move is expected to reduce the upfront cost burden on motorists, many of whom have struggled with rising fuel prices since the subsidy removal.
In addition, the government plans to deploy mobile refuelling units to bridge infrastructure gaps, particularly in underserved areas, while permanent facilities are being developed.
Energy analysts say the inclusion of electric vehicles signals a broader policy shift beyond short-term relief, positioning Nigeria to gradually align with global trends in low-emission transportation.
However, questions remain around infrastructure readiness, power supply stability, and the pace of execution required to achieve nationwide impact.
Originally launched in 2023, the CNG initiative was introduced as a cushioning mechanism following fuel subsidy removal. With Nigeria holding over 200 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, the government has consistently promoted gas as a more affordable and locally available alternative to petrol.
The expansion to include electric vehicles now places the programme at the centre of Nigeria’s evolving energy transition strategy, balancing immediate cost concerns with long-term sustainability goals.
For policymakers, the challenge will be ensuring that implementation keeps pace with ambition, particularly in delivering real cost savings to consumers and businesses.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.