Emmanuella Anokam
The Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF) has inaugurated an integrated Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refuelling facility at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife to spur gas availability and reduce transport cost.
The development marked another milestone in the MDGIF’s mandate to catalyse investments across Nigeria’s gas value chain and deepen domestic gas utilisation.
The Executive Director of MDGIF, Mr Oluwole Adama, in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja described the project as a practical demonstration of Nigeria’s gas-based energy transition.
“This project represents more than the commissioning of a refuelling station.
“It symbolises progress, partnership and purpose in advancing Nigeria’s energy transition, promoting cleaner fuels and deepening domestic gas utilisation in line with national energy objectives.
“As you may be aware, MDGIF was established to catalyse investments in midstream and downstream gas infrastructure across the country through equity partnerships with private investors.
“Our mandate is clear, to support projects that unlock gas value chains, improve gas access, enhance environmental sustainability, and deliver tangible socio-economic benefits to Nigerians.
“This CNG refuelling infrastructure project at Obafemi Awolowo University is one such strategic investments.
“Through our equity partnership with FEMADEC Energy Limited, MDGIF is proud to support 20 CNG refuelling infrastructure projects in 20 federal universities across Nigeria,” he said.
Prof. Adebayo Bamire, Vice-Chancellor, Obafemi Awolowo University, also commended the initiative, stating that the project, designed to serve both the university and the surrounding community, will foster research opportunities, practical learning and innovation in alternative fuels.
He added that it would also strengthen relations between the university and the host community, promote sustainable transport and create shared economic value.
Similarly, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FEMADEC Group, Mr Akinnola Fola, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering safe, efficient and scalable CNG infrastructure nationwide through strong public and private sector collaboration.
The OAU CNG project, designed to reduce transport costs and pollution on campus, was designed to promote cleaner mobility and expand access to gas infrastructure within the university and surrounding community.
It will alfo provide CNG buses and vehicle conversion services for students, staff and the neighbouring community, while supporting practical research and innovation in gas-powered transport solutions.
In support of clean transport within the institution, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, donated 50 CNG-powered buses, while PiCNG donated 10 CNG-powered tricycles.
This will provide more affordable mobility for the students and members of staff, while promoting the adoption of cleaner fuel alternatives.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
