CNG vs. PMS: Why Nigeria Should Make the Switch Now

“States should encourage private individuals, including their civil servants, to convert their vehicles to CNG. They can also have direct investments in dispensing the product,”  the Programme Director of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative, Michael Oluwagbemi, said during a press conference in Abuja in September.

As the Nigerian government urges citizens to transition from Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), many Nigerians express skepticism about this shift. However, understanding the benefits of CNG can illuminate why this transition is not only important for the environment but also for the economy and public health.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a cleaner-burning alternative to traditional fuels like petrol. Comprising primarily methane, CNG is stored at high pressures, making it suitable for use in vehicles and other applications. As Nigeria seeks to reduce carbon emissions and address environmental concerns, CNG offers a viable solution.

According to a report by IQAir, an organization that measures the Air Quality Index,  Nigeria’s 2019 reading of 21.40 μg/m³ put it into the ‘moderate’ ratings bracket for air pollution, which requires a PM2.5 reading of anywhere between 12.1 to 35.4 μg/m³ to be classified as such. This indicates that Nigeria is subject to less than appreciable levels of air quality in certain areas.

One of the primary advantages of CNG is its significantly lower carbon emissions compared to PMS. CNG produces up to 25% less carbon dioxide (CO2) and fewer harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter. This reduction can help Nigeria meet its climate goals and improve air quality in urban areas, benefiting public health.

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Using domestically sourced CNG can contribute to a more sustainable energy strategy. As the global community pushes for cleaner energy solutions, adopting CNG positions Nigeria as a proactive participant in the fight against climate change.

Also stated in the press conference is the price factor. CNG is generally less expensive than PMS, leading to potential savings for consumers and businesses. As fuel costs rise globally, transitioning to CNG can help stabilize energy expenses and provide financial relief to households and commercial enterprises. 

“As we use more CNG, the smart marketer will reduce prices to gain more customers,” the director stated.

The development of CNG infrastructure, such as refuelling stations and distribution networks, has the potential to create jobs. This initiative can boost local economies and foster growth in various sectors, including construction and transportation.

This point was emphasized by the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr. Joseph Osanipin at a Critique/Validation Workshop

 “When fully operational, the framework will place out-of-school children, working adults, graduates and apprentices at both formal and non-formal settings with skill acquisition and competency. ” he said. 

According to the latest figures on Nigeria’s crude Oil and Gas reserves released by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) through the Commission’s Chief Executive, Engr Gbenga Komolafe during a press briefing at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja early this year, he revealed that as of January 1, 2024, the reserves of Associated Gas and Non-Associated Gas stood at 209.26 trillion cubic feet (TCF).

This means that Nigeria has vast natural gas reserves, which translate that CNG can be sourced domestically and by investing in CNG, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on imported fuels, enhancing energy security and price stability.

Relying on locally produced CNG can take Nigeria away from the price volatility of international oil markets, leading to more predictable fuel costs for consumers.

In addition, Vehicles that run on CNG tend to have cleaner engines, resulting in reduced maintenance costs. The lower levels of contaminants produced during combustion car owners will enjoy longer engine life and fewer repairs.

Though CNG vehicles do not run at the same speed as PMS vehicles, they still offer performance comparable to those running on petrol or diesel, making them suitable for personal and commercial use. Drivers can expect similar power and efficiency, reducing concerns about sacrificing performance for sustainability.

While the advantages of CNG are compelling, the doubts among Nigerians are understandable. The government must prioritize public education and awareness campaigns to inform citizens about the benefits of CNG. Addressing concerns on infrastructure, availability, and transition strategies will be essential in gaining public support.

Switching from PMS to CNG offers Nigeria a great chance to lower carbon emissions, improve air quality, and strengthen energy security. By using CNG as a cleaner fuel, Nigeria can move toward a more sustainable future. Although some people have doubts, the many advantages of CNG make a strong argument for this change, which will ultimately help both the environment and the economy.

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By Francis Blessing