By Sunday Bassey

The Federal Government has inaugurated the construction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mother Station project which has a capacity of 10 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCF/D) in Akwa Ibom.

President Bola Tinubu conducted the groundbreaking of the project, owned by Nsik Oil and Gas Limited, on Thursday in Uquo Isi Edoho, Esit Eket Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom.

Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the project aligned with the Renewed Hope Initiative of his administration.

He said that the objective of the project was to promote cleaner and more affordable energy solutions.

He described the initiative as a game-changer which would not only boost Akwa Ibom’s economy but also significantly reduce dependence on petrol, and making gas a more accessible and cost-effective alternative.

Tinubu commended Nsik Oil and Gas for its bold investment, noting that “such private-sector-led initiatives are crucial to Nigeria’s energy transition goals.’’

He said that the Federal Government had prioritised investments in the gas sector, disclosing that over N222 billion had been released into the industry while another N400 billion would also be injected in two months’ time.

He said that the Federal Government was committed to ensuring that gas remained a key driver of economic growth and energy security.

The President said that when the project was completed, it would drastically lower gas prices, making it a viable alternative to petrol, which has surged to N900 per litre.

“By the time this project is completed, people will no longer queue to buy fuel at high prices; they will have access to a cheaper, cleaner energy source.’’

He urged the state and other entrepreneurs across the country to seize the opportunity as there was need for local investors to take charge of their economic growth.

Tinubu highlighted the employment potential of the project, assuring that it would create jobs for Akwa Ibom youths and beyond, thereby reducing the economic hardships caused by the removal of fuel subsidies.

He commended the oil and gas company for choosing Esit Eket as the project location instead of its CEO’s home local government, describing it as a selfless move that would spur balanced development across the state.

He urged the host community to provide a peaceful and conducive environment to ensure that the project thrived, adding that such large-scale investments required strong local support.

“This project will transform Esit Eket into an economic destination, attracting further investments and sustainable development,” he said.

In his remarks, the Chairman/CEO of Nsik Oil and Gas Limited, Mr Nsikan Johnny, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, the Akwa Ibom State Government, and all stakeholders for their unwavering support.

He described the project as a bold step towards energy security and economic empowerment, emphasising that “it aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for a  more sustainable and prosperous Nigeria.

“This project is not just about building a facility; it’s about creating opportunities, stimulating economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for our people,”

Johnny further highlighted the transformative impact the CNG Mother Station would have on various sectors, including transportation, industries, and domestic energy consumption.

Mrs Inemesit Ikot, the Chairperson of Esit Eket LGA, pledged their support to the project but, however, made a strong case for employment opportunities for youths to curb restiveness. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Jane-Frances Oraka

By Emmanuella Anokam

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) has called for a better monitoring of articulated vehicles for brake safety and compliance with maintenance requirements.

The P-CNGi, while commiserating with the victims of the accident and their relatives, called for more safety awareness and adherence to safety protocols at accident scenes.

The Chief Executive and Programme Director, PCNGi, Mr Michael Oluwagbemi, made the call on Thursday, while inspecting the scene of the tragic truck accident that occurred at Karu bridge, on the Abuja-Keffi Highway.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a truck had exploded on Wednesday night after it lost control and rammed into vehicles stuck in traffic, which saw about 14 vehicles burnt, while six people died.

“P-CNGi is committed to continued safety of Nigerian road users as it promotes alternative sources of energy that is cheaper, safer and more reliable for the economic development of the nation,” he said.

He underscored the need to ensure a proper licensing regime for commercial drivers, that require both safety and evacuation training.

He also called for better monitoring of articulated trucks for brake safety and compliance with maintenance requirements, while ensuring a proper licensing regime for commercial drivers that require both safety and evacuation training.

The P-CNGi boss reiterated the intrinsic safety of CNG vehicles, in view of the preliminary findings and calls on Nigerians to exercise patience, to enable the authorities to get to the root cause of the accident.

He called on relevant stakeholders to work towards a better monitored gas vehicle ecosystem with the proposed launch of the Nigerian Gas Vehicle Monitoring System (NGVMS).

Oluwagbemi inspected the scene of the unfortunate accident at Karu bridge, alongside officials of the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), who were conducting investigations too. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

By Emmanuella Anokam

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has refuted reports of an explosion at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) in Rivers.

The company, in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, clarified that what occurred was a flare incident, which has since been fully contained.

Soneye said there was no danger or health hazard to staff, the surrounding communities, or the environment.

“NNPC Ltd. urges the media and the public to disregard any reports suggesting an explosion at the refinery, as they are entirely false,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

By Emmanuella Anokam

In a bid to cut fuel cost, more motorists are converting their vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

The motorists urged the Federal Government to provide more CNG refilling stations across the country to ensure availability.

They spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

The motorists allayed fears being entertained by many Nigerians on CNG, describing it as a cheaper, cleaner and safer fuel, costing N230 per Standard Cubic Meter (SCM).

NAN reports that the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI) has been championing the transition to CNG as a cheaper, efficient and environmentally friendly alternative fuel since its establishment in 2023.

Many motorists had expressed scepticism and concern over the conversion of their fuel vehicles to CNG, in view of its high cost, lack of expertise, fear of damaging vehicles and limited infrastructure.

NAN checks at some CNG conversion workshops in the FCT saw queues of vehicles awaiting conversion, while some fuel stations currently witness queues by motorists for CNG refilling, indicating increase in CNG usage.

The P-CNGI had said that more than 190 conversion centres had been established, with 56 retail outlets dispensing CNG.

The aim, it said, was to increase the number to 500 conversion centres and more than 150 retail outlets by the end of the year.

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) also recently revealed that Nigeria’s CNG conversion capacity increased by more than 2,500 per cent in 2024, while refuelling capacity has risen from 20 to 56.

Speaking with NAN, Mr Moses Ibeh, a motorist, advised Nigerians to convert to CNG and save cost, adding that the only disadvantage was the space the cylinder will occupy in the trunk of the vehicle.

Ibeh urged the government, through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), to provide more CNG refilling stations to encourage motorists and ensure CNG availability.

“I was one of the people that had phobia for using gas to run anything engine. But the high cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as fuel made me to have a change of heart.

“I coordinate a Toyota Coaster bus for my office which is used to convey members of staff to work and take them back, and I use N90,000 to fuel it from Monday to Friday.

“We had an opportunity to convert to CNG, and as I speak to you, we use N17,000 to run the bus for the same five days we use N90,000 to buy fuel.

“Though, we still buy fuel of N30,000 as reserve, to supplement the CNG.

“All together, we now use N47,000 to run the bus for the five working days as against the initial N90,000. We now save N43,000 every week,” he said.

Another CNG user, Mr Abdul Ibrahim, also emphasised the need for NMDPRA to give licences to major oil marketers to provide CNG services in their fuel stations to ensure easy access.

Ibrahim said as many had begun using CNG vehicles, it would be necessary for more CNG infrastructure to be built across the country, to enable long distance motorists to access and refill their CNG vehicles while on transit.

This, he said, would equally crash the exorbitant transport fares being paid by long-distance commuters in view of the high price of PMS.

Mr Philip Joseph, an Uber Driver and ardent CNG user, described the CNG conversion and usage as the best and alternative fuel for transportation business.

Joseph said there was the need for motorists to install double cylinders because one 75 kg CNG cylinder does not have enough storage space to last for a motorist.

According to him, he queues at fuel station to refill his saloon car every two days due to single cylinder, while bigger vehicles refill every other day.

The P-CNGi is a component of the palliative intervention of the President Bola Tinubu administration directed at providing succour to the masses, occasioned by the transitive hardships of the fuel subsidy removal policy.

To ensure affordability, the P-CNGi rolled out three programmes namely – free conversion of mass transit vehicles, targeting one million by 2027, Ride-shares vehicles’ 50 per cent discount conversion and Credit Access for Light and Mobility (CALM) fund.

The CALM fund, being disbursed through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) initiative, and could be accessed through www.credicorp.ng, is aimed at enabling loan for CNG conversions and solar energy.

NAN recalls that in response to the growing financial strain on Nigerians due to high energy and transportation costs, the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), CREDICORP, and the P-CNGi in 2024 unveiled the fund. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

By Salif Atojoko

The Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV) has described the17 billion dollars Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) in the oil and gas industry in 2024 announced by Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. as phenomenal.

Mr Chukwudi Enekwechi, Chairman of TMV, said the investment, a result of President Bola Tinubu`s administration’s regulatory reforms, would help jumpstart the economy.

He said that many foreign direct investments have been attracted into the country as a result of the ongoing reforms of the President Tinubu administration in the oil sector.

“This increase in FDI is bound to lead to a continuous increase in the country’s oil production level with the attendant increase in the federal government’s revenue profile.

“The effect would be the enhancement of the federal government capacity to fund critical projects.

“Additionally, more jobs will be created for the teeming Nigerian youths,” he said.

Enekwechi said that in spite of the initial cynicism about Tinubu`s economic reforms, the huge inflow of foreign direct investments in the oil and gas sector had justified the President’s economic policies.

He said that the investments also proved that Nigeria had become a safe and attractive investment destination, especially with the reduction in sabotage of the oil and gas facilities.

“Obviously, Nigeria has now joined the league of countries where global best practices are observed.

“Also, with the inflow of foreign direct investments, the relevant technical skills would be acquired by the Nigerian oil industry workers.

“It is also gratifying that with the growing geo-political tensions around the world, Nigeria is now open for business, and this will augur well for the country’s economic growth and development,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

By Martins Abochol

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has hosted critical stakeholders in the petroleum and gas sector to address incessant incidences of tanker explosion in Taraba.

Alhaji Abdullahi Bature, Coordinator of NMDPRA in the state, while addressing stakeholders at its first quarter stakeholders meeting in Jalingo, said that Taraba has recorded three tanker explosion incidences so far in 2025.

Bature said that the collaboration became necessary for the identification of workable solutions to the challenge.

He stated that such incidences had caused a lot of downturns on the economy and loss of lives.

He said that the safety of drivers was a matter of concern to the agency, encouraging stakeholders to suggest measures that could stem the tide of tanker explosion.

The coordinator also said that the agency was considering the use of various media platforms for the sensitisation of drivers on safety measures.

Malam Muazu Muhammed, Head of Gas, while making presentation on tanker explosion incidents and truck-in-transit accidents, emphasised that the safety of operators was paramount to the organisation.

He said that the collaboration with all stakeholders in the state was intended to identify measures that could address the ugly trend.

Muhammed urged participants to identify workable resolutions that would be enforced to achieve the goal.

Alhaji Ahmed Isa of the National Association of Transport Owners (NATO), commended NMDPRA for bringing partners together with a view to charting a common cause.

He said that NATO members had lost several vehicles and products through accidents, adding that the menace had a direct economic effect on their businesses.

In his remarks, Mr Adi Mikyin, a Superintendent of Fire Service, advised stakeholders to prioritise training and re-training of drivers.

Mikyin observed that lack of professionalism was a major cause of accidents by the trucks and tanker drivers.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that critical stakeholders, such as Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, representatives of the federal and state fire services among others attended the meeting. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gabriel Yough

By Martins Abochol

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 1,149 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), allegedly smuggled through the Dorofi and Kan Iyaka axis, along the Gembu-Cameroon border in Taraba.

Comptroller General (C-G) of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this on Friday in Jalingo while auctioning the seized petroleum products to the public.

Adeniyi said that the ‘Operation Whirlwind’ which burst the smuggling network was carried out between March 8 and 9, 2025.

He explained that the operation was based on credible intelligence and was done in collaboration with other agencies.

He listed the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) as critical partners towards achieving the success in the anti-smuggling campaign.

“Our intelligence-led operations have disrupted an emerging smuggling corridor along the Gembu-Dorofi-Kan Iyaka-Cameroon border.

“We remain committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s fuel does not end up in neighbouring countries illegally at the expense of our economy,” he said.

The C-G added that the seized petroleum products, contained in 30-liter jerrycans, totalled about 34 million litres.

He said that a special-purpose transportation vehicle valued at N4 million was also impounded, bringing the total duty-paid value of the seizure to over N37 million.

Adeniyi noted that the difficult terrain of the area had contributed to the prevalence of smuggling activities.

“The rough landscape is a challenge but we are working towards deploying technology to enhance real-time intelligence and surveillance, which will improve our ability to track and intercept illegal activities,” he said.

The customs boss called on Nigerians to support the service by providing credible information that could aid in tackling smuggling.

“We urge members of the public to collaborate with us and other security agencies. Smuggling is an economic crime, and tackling it requires collective effort.

“Intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration are key to sustaining our fight against this menace,” he said.

Adeniyi reaffirmed the commitment of the service to strengthen border security and to curb the illegal exportation of petroleum products, warning that those involved would face the full weight of the law.

Earlier, Controller Garba Bature, Controller of Adamawa/Taraba Command, said that the command would leave no stone unturned in its fight against smuggling activities.

Bature, while commending the command for its giant strides, sought collaboration from border communities in intelligence gathering. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gabriel Yough

By Emmauella Anokam

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI) says it is intensifying its monitoring efforts to ensure strict adherence to the approved affordable fare structures by transport operators.

Mr Michael Oluwagbemi, Programme Director/Chief Executive, P-CNGI, made this known while reacting to reports alleging non-compliance with agreed fare structures by some transport operators.

Oluwagbemi said that the initiative would ensure that no transport union extorted members to access the programme.

“We will sanction any defaulting operator.

“The P-CNGI notes with consternation, recent media reports alleging non-compliance with agreed fare structures by some transport operators.

“P-CNGI wishes to clarify its position and the ongoing efforts being made to ensure affordability of conversions for commercial drivers while monitoring their compliance to pass on savings to consumers.”

Oluwagbemi said the introduction of CNG conversion incentives under the P-CNGI was designed to alleviate the burden of high fuel costs by enabling commercial drivers to transition from petrol and diesel to CNG at no cost.

“It is, therefore, disappointing and unacceptable that certain stakeholders within the transport sector are acting against the initiative’s goals by imposing fare structures that contradict its purpose,” he said.

To support a smooth and affordable transition, Oluwagbemi said the P-CNGI established a Conversion Incentive Programme, which registered authorised conversion centres under its supervision.

According to him, these centres work closely with P-CNGI to ensure that commercial vehicles benefit from the free conversion scheme for commercial vehicle operators.

“The P-CNGI in collaboration with key stakeholders, has been engaging actively with transport unions to ensure that all commercial drivers can access these free conversions.

“In recent times and to further streamline the process, the initiative inaugurated the ‘10 for 10 Initiative’ where field agents visited commercial transport parks in Abuja and Lagos to sign up vehicles for free conversions.

“This proactive approach ensures that more drivers can benefit from the programme without facing unnecessary barriers when exclusively required to go through their unions.

“Any operator or stakeholder found violating these terms will face appropriate sanctions.

“We encourage commercial drivers to report challenges in accessing the free conversions via designated channels or by calling the P-CNGI helpline at 07000000264.

“New measures are also being introduced to strengthen oversight, ensure compliance and to ensure that the intended benefits reach drivers and the general public,” he said.

Oluwagbemi also said that his office was also working diligently with partners to expand refuelling infrastructure and establish more conversion centres.

This, he said, would increase accessibility for commercial drivers and improve gas supply availability to further promote the adoption of CNG as a sustainable and affordable fuel alternative. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

By Sunday Bassey

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Resources Authority (NMDPRA) is set to embark on a public campaign to educate the public on the dangers of scooping petroleum products from falling tankers.

Mrs Nsima Isong, Acting Coordinator of NMDPRA, made the disclosure during a stakeholders’ meeting in Eket Field Office, Akwa Ibom.

She said the campaign was aimed at preventing the likelihood of an incident and ensure public safety.

According to her, the campaign will be done in conjunction with other agencies and stakeholders in the state.

Isong said the essence of the meeting was aimed to sensitise stakeholders on the resolutions reached and ensure a seamless implementation.

She said that NMDPRA would implement regular training and retraining of truck drivers and motor boys by the second quarter of 2025.

The acting coordinator said the measure would help to equip drivers with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate safely.

Isong said that NMDPRA would collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in carrying out the campaign.

According to her, the FRSC will conduct regular checks to ensure that drivers are not fatigued or driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances.

Isong explained that NMDPRA would introduce colour coding for trucks starting from April 1, 2025, to enhance visibility.

“The measure will facilitate easy identification of compliant tankers and ensure that non-compliant tankers are sanctioned,” she said.

She said that tankers carrying petroleum products exceeding 60,000 litres would be prohibited from plying Nigerian roads with effect from Saturday, March 1.

“This restriction aims to reduce the risk of accidents and spills associated with overloaded tankers,” she said.

She said that NMDPRA would hold regular meetings with stakeholders to review progress and address challenges.

She said the meetings would provide a platform for feedback, suggestions, and collaboration to ensure the successful implementation of the new resolution.

According to her, the introduction of these resolution marks a significant step towards enhancing safety and reducing tanker accidents on Nigerian roads.

Isong said that NMDPRA aimed to protect lives, prevent environmental pollution, and promote a safer and more responsible petroleum transportation industry. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

By Emmanuella Anokam

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has urged oil companies operating in Nigeria to prioritise the development of their host communities.

NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, made the call at the official presentation of a Policy Brief on three per cent Operating Expenses (OPEX) for Host Communities on Thursday in Abuja.

The policy brief is titled: “Giving host communities their due: Revisiting the three per cent OPEX funding framework for host community development trusts in Nigeria”.

The unveiling, organised by the Spaces for Change, a Civil Society Organisation (CSO), had in attendance stakeholders from the oil industries and representatives of the host communities, among others.

Speaking at the event, Orji emphasised the need for greater corporate commitment to community development.

“It is an honour to address you today on a matter of profound importance to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

“And more importantly, to the communities that bear the direct impact of resource extraction—the Host Communities Trust Fund.

“This fund, established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA 2021), is designed to enhance the welfare of host communities, ensure sustainable development, and promote peaceful coexistence between industry operators and their host environments,” he said.

Orji said the successful implementation of the initiative required a collective effort, involving not only government agencies but also the vital contributions of NEITI and non-state actors, including CSOs, community leaders, and the media.

“The Role of NEITI as the national representative of the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s extractive sector.

“Specifically, in the implementation of the Host Communities Trust Fund, NEITI’s role is multifaceted,” said Orji.

According to him, NEITI is mandated to ensure openness in revenue flows and financial transactions being pivotal in tracking funds allocated to host communities.

He also urged host communities to play their part by taking ownership of projects in their areas and ensuring their proper maintenance.

“The host communities must be willing to take responsibility by owning and maintaining the projects implemented for their benefit,” he emphasised.

Dr Dekor Robinson, Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities in the House of Representatives, pledged continued engagement to ensure the effective utilisation of funds allocated to host communities.

Represented by Mr Clement Jimbo, a fellow committee member in the House of Representatives, Robinson emphasised that the three per cent allocation was not insignificant.

He stressed the importance of host communities taking full control of the funds to achieve their development goals.

In her presentation, Mrs Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, Executive Director of Spaces for Change, highlighted her organisation’s role as a key partner in recognising both the achievements and gaps in the fund’s utilisation.

Ibezim-Ohaeri encouraged companies to engage host communities as partners and emphasised her organisation’s commitment to addressing the identified gaps. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma