Nigeria to start production of CNG conversion kits soon — PCNGI

Nigeria is set to commence the production of components currently being imported for the conversion of vehicles to run on compressed natural gas (CNG).

Already President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of CNG industrial parks for this purpose.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/Programme Director of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, disclosed this in Lagos at a training workshop organised by the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association’s (NAJA).

He said the government would vigorously purse this project with a firm belief that the CNG revolution is a catalyst for Nigeria’s industrialisation.

Oluwagbemi who was represented at the event by Mr. Olayinka Rufai, Strategic Project Adviser at the PCNGI, in his presentation, said the government had identified manufacturers of components for CNG vehicle conversion that had indicated interest to establish their plants in Nigeria.

He said, “We do not want to replace the importation of fuel with the importation of equipment.

“In government’s ambitious mission to convert a million commercial vehicles in three years (amongst other targets) there lies an opportunity to establish local production of these conversion kits and their components.

“As such we are in advanced stages of preparation to set up industrial parks where CNG related equipment, materials, and components are produced.

“We have identified the central and well-suited Ajaokuta Steel Complex for the first of these parks. We have identified manufacturers of conversion kits, cylinders, and even tricycles who have all indicated interest in establishing facilities to assemble or produce from scratch.”

According to the PCNGI CEO, the initiative will drive down the demand for foreign exchange and boost the economy.

Indeed, he added that it would create job opportunities for the youth, skilled labour, and “eventually bring in foreign exchange as we begin to generate export capacity.”

Oluwagbemi stressed that Nigeria is more of a gas than an oil country, adding that the adoption of the CNG as a primary fuel source for vehicles would offer a tangible, immediate gain for all Nigerians.

He said, “CNG allows us to decrease our reliance on imported fuels and build a more resilient energy future.

“By using CNG, vehicle owners will see a reduction in fuel costs of up to 50%, which is especially critical for drivers who rely on their vehicles for income and transport.

“Additionally, CNG-powered vehicles are known for significantly lower maintenance costs. Unlike petrol and diesel, CNG burns cleaner, resulting in fewer engine deposits and less frequent oil changes, ultimately extending the life of vehicle engines and reducing repair expenses.”

He disclosed the FG was determined to drive the CNG vision to achieve maximum success.

He said apart from injecting $250 million in the past 12 months, the government was also collaborating with financial institutions for easy access by motorists.

He listed InfraCorp, Bank of Industry (BoI) and Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) as some of the financial institutions the government was working with to ease the conversion costs for vehicle owners.

Oluwagbemi said the government planned to convert a million petrol and diesel powered-engine vehicles to run on CNG by 2027.

He assured Nigerians of the safety of CNG-powered vehicles either obtained from credible auto firm or converted at any government-approved centre.

He said the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) and the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) had been part of the safety and standard regulations for the project.

He specifically said the SON had provided over 80 standards on the CNG, while the NADDC handles the conversion centre accreditation and conversion kit certification.

“Let me be clear — CNG is not only safe but, in many ways, even safer than traditional fuels. CNG cylinders are rigorously tested to withstand high pressures, and because natural gas is lighter than air, it disperses quickly in the highly unlikely event of a leak, reducing the risk of fire,” he stated.

Oluwagbemi commended NAJA for organising the event and its consistent commitment to informing and educating the public about advances in the nation’s auto industry.

He particularly noted that the theme, ‘CNG/LPG/EV Initiative: Challenges, Sustainability, Opportunities, Alternatives to Fossil Fuels in Nigeria’ was timely, speaking not only to the nation’s energy and environmental goals but also to a larger economic vision.

CNG vehicles safe, says NADDC, buys converted vehicles for official use

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has alayed the fears of Nigerians about the safety of vehicles converted to run on compressed natural gas (CNG), an energy source found to be far cheaper than petrol or diesel.
The Federal Government’s agency has converted some of its official cars to run on the CNG, just as it bought fully built CNG vehicles to add to its fleet.
Director General of the NADDC, Oluwemimo Osanipin, disclosed this in Lagos at a training workshop organised by the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association under the theme ‘CNG/LPG/EV initiative: Challenges, Sustainability, Opportunities, Alternatives to Fossil Fuels in Nigeria’.
He spoke against a recent explosion of a CNG-powered vehicle at a NIPCO filling station in Benin, Edo State, which left three people severely injured. The explosion was traced to a cylinder fabricated by a welder without proper approval.
The NADDC DG, who was represented at the event by Ikechukwu Okoha, an assistant director, said, “To further demonstrate the safety of gas-powered vehicles, Council has converted some of its vehicles to use CNG.
“Some locally assembled gas-powered vehicles have also been procured by the Council.
“Council is engaging world-class OEMs to ensure that we get the best conversion solutions introduced into the country.”
According to him, the agency has a compelling role in the implementation of the CNG penetration programme.
He noted that the emergence of the CNG as an alternative to petrol was aimed at addressing energy-security and environmental concerns occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal and global warming issue respectively.
“The use of CNG and electric vehicles is one of the sure ways of reducing the emissions from petrol and diesel,” he added.
The DG said, “In collaboration with experts in conversion technology, Council (has) developed the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for conversion, calibration and maintenance of autogas-powered vehicles (CNG/LPG/LNG).
“The NOS has been validated by industry practitioners and approved by the regulatory authority, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
“The NOS would be used to train auto technicians on the conversion, repair and maintenance of gas-powered vehicles.”
He also spoke about the training of local manpower and local manufacturing of conversion kits as well as creating a CNG conversion portal for the registration, accreditation and licensing of CNG conversion workshops across Nigeria among other tasks being championed by the agency.
He said the NADDC recently carried out a stakeholders’ forum on accreditation of CNG conversion workshops in Nigeria; coordinated a national conference on harnessing youth potential and career prospects within the Nigerian Automotive Sector.
“We coordinated the training on conversion of petrol vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG) powered vehicles conducted by Lanre Shittu Motors in collaboration with NADDC.
“Forty-five technicians drawn from across the LGAs in Ekiti State participated in the training and they were empowered with modern tools/equipment at the end of the programme.”
He also disclosed that the agency coordinated the processes of accrediting and licensing CNG conversion workshops across the country and 30 workshops licensed for CNG conversion.
“To ensure skills development and international best practices in the automotive sector of the country, the Council conceived the establishment of Automotive Training Centres (ATCs) across the six geo-political zones aimed at redefining the nation’s auto industry, job provision and improvement in skills among technicians.
“This will in turn ensure prompt and efficient repair and maintenance of vehicles, while ensuring the safety of the mechanics, the vehicles and environment.
“A total of twenty-one (centres) are being built by the Council. Many of the projects have been completed and are currently being equipped with state-of- the-art equipment by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The ATCs will also serve as CNG conversion centres when operational.”

2024 Lagos Trade Fair: Carloha offers Chery full range, eco-friendly solutions, discount, test drive 

Visitors to the 2024 edition of the Lagos International Trade Fair holding at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) from November 1 to November 10, 2024 are in for a big treat at the Carloha pavillion.
Carloha is the authorized assembler and franchise holder of Chery vehicles in Nigeria.
The auto firm says it will make this year’s event a fair to remember with its loaded package on offer at the TBS venue such as interactive display of top-tier vehicles,
test drive, eco-friendly solutions, and exclusive discount on Chery Tiggo 2.
It stated, “Chery, known for its dynamic innovation, engineering prowess, and modern designs, aims to bring its latest models to the forefront of Nigeria’s automotive market.
“Chery’s presence at this event underscores its commitment to delivering top-tier vehicles that meet the demands of the Nigerian market.
“Visitors to the Chery exhibition booth will have an opportunity to experience a variety of models, from stylish sedans like the Arrizo 5 to rugged SUVs such as the Tiggo 8 Pro, Tiggo 4 Pro, and Tiggo 2 Pro, each designed to meet specific needs and preferences.
“Attendees will have the opportunity to get up close with each vehicle, enabling them to explore features such as ergonomic designs, fuel efficiency, artificial intelligence drivetrain, and high-performance engines that define the Chery brand.”
According to the firm, Chery’s customer-centric approach ensures that there is a model to fit every lifestyle and budget.
It stated that in line with the trade fair’s theme of promoting business and investment in Nigeria, Chery would also emphasize its contributions to the Nigerian economy.
It noted that the trade fair serves as an ideal platform for Chery to reiterate its dedication to contributing positively to the Nigerian market.
It declared that prospective customers and visitors to the fair would be treated to exclusive offers and discounts on Chery Tiggo 2 throughout the event.
It said the limited-time promotions had been designed to make owning a Chery vehicle more accessible to Nigerian families and businesses.
In addition to discounts, it said Chery would offering test drives to attendees interested in experiencing the cars firsthand, providing them with a feel of Chery’s hallmark comfort, control, and luxury.
The test drive sessions would be guided by knowledgeable brand representatives ready to answer any questions and ensure a smooth experience, it stated.
It also disclosed that Chery’s participation at the Lagos International Trade Fair would highlight its dedication to environmental sustainability as well.
It said, “The display will feature information on Chery’s research into green technologies and efforts to reduce emissions in its vehicle production and operations.
“This aligns with global trends towards eco-friendly solutions, and Chery’s commitment to environmental responsibility further positions it as a forward-thinking brand.
“Attendees interested in environmentally conscious automotive options will gain valuable insights into Chery’s plans for a greener future.”
Sales Director for Carloha Nigeria, Mr. Joseph Omokhapue, said, “The Chery display at the Lagos International Trade Fair promises exciting benefits for all our visitors.
“This display goes beyond just showcasing our vehicles; it’s an invitation for Nigerians to experience Chery’s commitment to quality, reliability, and excellence, strengthening Chery’s position as a top choice in the automotive industry.
“Come and explore a perfect blend of cutting-edge vehicles, interactive displays, and exclusive offers. Chery’s presence at the 2024 Lagos International Trade Fair is set to be a major attraction.”
The statement said through strategic partnerships with local dealers and suppliers, Chery had created jobs and built valuable relationships in Nigeria’s automotive sector.
“This commitment to the nation’s economic growth aligns with Chery’s vision to foster long-term success and sustainability in Nigeria,” it stated.
Carloha therefore urged everyone—from auto enthusiasts to prospective car buyers—to visit the Chery display, and enjoy six years free service, six years warranty or 200,000 kilometres, a flexible auto financing solution with fair prices for all vehicles, and 24/7 services and parts support nationwide.
“This ensures that owners can drive their vehicles with peace of mind, knowing they have reliable support and service from Chery for years to come,” the statement added.