The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has delivered 35 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses to the Presidential Initiative on CNG. This marks a major step forward in Nigeria’s effort to promote cleaner and more cost-effective fuel alternatives.
The handover event, held on Monday at the NNPC Towers in Abuja, underscores the state-owned energy company’s alignment with the Federal Government’s broader gas development and energy transition strategy.
Driving Cleaner Energy Adoption
Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Bashir Ojulari, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the country’s clean energy goals. He stated that the donation reflects NNPC Ltd’s support for expanding the use of CNG as a viable transport fuel.
“This gesture is more than symbolic—it reflects our strategic support for expanding natural gas as a reliable transport fuel,” Ojulari noted. He also highlighted the company’s progress in gas infrastructure, supply chains, and retail outlets across the country.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, also spoke at the ceremony. He said the CNG buses serve as tools for economic relief, social equity, and environmental responsibility.
“They signal a future where Nigerians can travel safely and affordably while contributing to cleaner air and reduced emissions,” he added, describing the initiative as a key component of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Supporting Local Industry and Reducing Fuel Costs
NNPC Ltd’s Executive Vice President, Downstream, Mumuni Dagazau, emphasized the economic impact of the switch to CNG. He said displacing petrol (PMS) and diesel (AGO) with locally sourced gas leads to substantial fuel cost savings while boosting the domestic gas value chain.
Managing Director of the NNPC Foundation, Emmanuella Arukwe, noted that the initiative supports environmental sustainability and inclusive development. “We are shaping an energy future that benefits communities, protects the environment, and promotes social inclusion,” she said.
Building Momentum for a National Rollout
Michael Oluwagbemi, CEO and Programme Coordinator of the Presidential CNG Initiative, commended NNPC Ltd for its ongoing partnership. He said the company has been a reliable ally since the start of the program.
This donation is part of a wider plan to convert thousands of vehicles to CNG. The initiative aims to reduce transportation costs following fuel subsidy removal, cut emissions, and tap into Nigeria’s rich natural gas reserves to ensure long-term energy security.