Nigeria on the path to zero-emission road transport system – Newstrends
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Nigeria on the path to zero-emission road transport system

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Nigeria must have been sitting on a keg of gun powder with its rising air pollution emanating from gas flaring and vehicle emissions.

A new survey by some university researchers has established a link between poor academics in childhood and air pollution exposure.

Indeed, the Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health research result published in the journal of Science Daily says children exposed to elevated levels of air pollution are more likely to have poor inhibitory control during late childhood and poor academic skills in early adolescence, including spelling, reading comprehension and math skills.

The World Health Organisation has also released a report indicating that air pollution is responsible for about seven million annual deaths globally.

Nine out of 10 persons are said to currently breathe air exceeding the WHO guideline limit for pollutants.

Road transport is also said to be a major contributor to greenhouse gases and air pollution, just as flaring of gas, emanating from oil production, is rife with its huge economic losses and incalculable health hazards to Nigerians.

The carbon dioxide, methane and soot released as a result of gas flaring are said to cause health issues such as cancer and lung damage, deformities in children, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, neurological and reproductive problems as well as environmental challenges which stall agricultural productivity and aquatic and wildlife lives.

And this has led to social unrest in the Niger Delta oil producing area, escalating to other places as agitators have engaged in violent protests including bombing of oil facilities, kidnapping of oil workers and killings. They complain that their natural environment, farmlands, fishing ponds and other forms of life have been damaged or distorted.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation recently confirmed the huge loss resulting from gas flaring, saying the country lost an about N53.26bn in the first two months of this year as a total of 33.04 billion standard cubic feet of natural gas was flared by international oil companies and local players.

The World Bank reports through the Global Gas Flaring Tracker that Nigeria and six other nations (Russia, Iraq, Iran, the United States, Algeria and Venezuela) have been top gas-flarers of the world for nine years.

Even as they produce 40 per cent of the world’s oil each year, it says these countries account for about two-thirds (65 per cent) of global gas flaring.

Although the Federal Government has imposed a fine on oil companies involved in gas flaring and fixed 2025 as the date to end the flaring practice after several changes of past deadlines, experts are of the view the gas flares could be a huge revenue worth billions of dollars if well harnessed.

Experts including John Walke, director of the Clean Air Project, say air pollution not only contributes to climate change but is also exacerbated by it.

“Most air pollution comes from energy use and production…Burning fossil fuels releases gases and chemicals into the air,” says Walke.

Nigeria is said to have some of the worst air pollution in the world, with clouds of choking soot hanging over gridlocked cities, leading to a rise in serious health conditions and damaged vehicles.

Global Alliance on Heath and Pollution in a report ranks Nigeria third in the world for pollution-related deaths and sixth in premature deaths caused by air pollution.

An international resource watchdog group, Stakeholder Democracy Network, in a report, estimates that 114,000 people die prematurely from air pollution each year in Nigeria.

Many people in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, are said to be breathing polluted air leading to avoidable deaths. Indeed, a recent World Bank report estimated that air pollution caused over 11,200 premature deaths in Lagos, with children accounting for about 60 per cent.

The health cost of air pollution was put at $2.1 billion, which was about 1.3 per cent of Lagos State’s gross domestic product GDP.

This is not surprising considering about 13 million of mostly old cars imported from Europe and Japan on the nation’s roads, and hundreds of thousands of inefficient generators used by households and businesses for electricity emitting thick smokes.

Researchers have found fuel imported from Europe and pumped into filling stations in Nigeria as extremely toxic. They found that such fuel extremely exceeded the EU pollution limits.

“Our research suggests that Nigeria is having dirty fuel dumped on it that cannot be sold to other countries with higher and better implemented standards. The situation is so bad that the average diesels sampled are of even lower quality that that produced by artisanal refining camps in the creeks of the Niger delta,” said Florence Kayemba, SDN programme manager.

The SDN report reinforces allegations made in a 2016 Public Eye investigation and a Dutch government report in 2018, that European refineries and commodity brokers were blending crude oil with benzene and other carcinogenic chemicals to create fuels hundreds of times over European pollution limits for the weakly-regulated African market.

This was said to be causing significant particulate pollution, damage to vehicles, and adverse health effect s for the residents.

The WHO in 2016 adjudged Onitsha as the world’s most polluted city, recording a concentration of PM10s – soot particles – at 594 micrograms per cubic metre; compared with the WHO safe limit of 66.

For instance, the air quality in Port Harcourt, Aba, Onitsha and Kaduna has reached crisis levels of pollution in recent years, with rising cases of asthma, lung, heart and respiratory diseases.

The SDN report says the levels of particulate matter in Port Harcourt and Lagos are 20 per cent worse than Delhi in India, the most polluted capital city in the world, where emergency levels of photochemical smogs are common.

“High levels of pollution and pre-existing respiratory and other health conditions may increase the risk that COVID-19 poses to the health of the population,” said Matthew Halstead of Noctis, which conducted the laboratory research.

The introduction of ECO Bus transport system, powered by flare gas recovered compressed natural gas (CNG), to Nigeria is therefore considered a big relief and blessing as it will not only solve the problem of gas flaring and but provide a better economic alternative to the meagre flaring fines as well as address the air pollution headache.

This must have also informed the decision of the FG to encourage the conversion of petrol engine vehicles to gas engine automobiles.

It recently unveiled plans to deliver one million vehicles converted from petrol to gas-powered by the end of the year.

The Director-General, National Automotive Design and Development Council, Jelani Aliyu, says the Federal Government is excited about the gas-powered vehicles and will do everything possible to ensure the success of the project.

Aliyu, who spoke at the recent opening ceremony of the 15th edition of the annual Lagos Motor Fair organised by the BKG Exhibitions, also said the NADDC was working with major players in the auto industry in Nigeria to fast-track the transition.

He said, “We are excited about the gas-powered vehicles and I’m particularly delighted to see some of them on display at this auto fair.

“We encourage other players to look at the auto gas project as the government is determined to make it work with plan to deliver one million vehicles converted from petrol to gas-powered by the end of the year.”

The ECO Bus project is said to aim at developing world’s cleanest mass transportation systems, tailored towards the respective environment of each city with a focus on flare gas based CNG operation.

It plans to reduce carbon footprints and other GHG per passenger by 80 per cent, overall costs of public transport per passenger by 30 per cent, and accident rate by 80 per cent.

It is considered to have high operational excellence, safety and comfort as well as transparency, creating a reliable business model.

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FRSC, sister agencies form JTF to arrest truck drivers conveying humans

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FRSC, sister agencies form JTF to arrest truck drivers conveying humans

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has inaugurated a Joint Task Force (JTF) with sister dedicated to arrest and prosecute trailer drivers conveying passengers along with goods.

This is contained in a statement by the spokesman for the FRSC, Jonas Agwu.

The move was to curb the menace of road traffic crashes associated with trailers.

According to the statement, the JTF is made up of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, state traffic management agencies and operatives of the Corps, along with representatives from various transport unions.

This came followed a tragic road traffic crash on the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway last Monday night, which resulted in the loss of 10 lives.

The accident involving a DAF Trailer was attributed to excessive speed, overloading, and driver fatigue, highlighting the urgent need for stringent enforcement of road safety regulations.

Jonas said the inauguration was done on Saturday at the Kakau Tollgate in Kaduna State, marking the start of the phased deployment along critical expressways.

During the inauguration ceremony, the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Dauda Biu, underscored the pivotal role of the JTF in curbing the menace of road traffic crashes associated with trailers.

The corps marshal, represented by Assistant Corps Marshal, Federal Operations, Zubairu Mato, said, “In the last couple of months, the highways have witnessed incidences of road traffic crashes involving trailers loaded with goods, animals, and persons.”

Biu added the initiative was part of a broader effort to ensure the safety of road users and to enforce compliance with traffic laws, particularly those prohibiting the conveyance of passengers in vehicles designed for cargo.

Part of the statement read, “In order to reverse the ugly trend, the JTF were directed to embark on effective special patrol operations as well as conduct Mobile Court operations on the commissioned route. They are to also ensure immediate prosecution of apprehended offenders.

“The exercise will be carried out across major corridors nationwide. Consequently, owners of trailers are admonished to warn their drivers against this traffic violations as the Corps will not spare anyone caught in the act.”

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Toyota Nigeria presents nine schoolchildren for global dream car art contest + photos

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Toyota Nigeria presents nine schoolchildren for global dream car art contest

Toyota (Nigeria) Limited has honoured nine schoolchildren that emerged as national winners of the 2024 (17th) edition of the annual Toyota Dream Car Art contest.
According to the Managing Director of TNL, Mr Kunle Ade-Ojo, all nine drawings created by the nine winners have also been sent to Japan to compete with other winning drawings across the globe.


The latest national winners were celebrated and presented with top quality laptops, corporate gifts and certificates during a grand ceremony held on Saturday, 16th March, 2024, at TNL Corporate head office in Lekki, Lagos, to the admiration of their parents, Art teachers and well wishers that attended the colourful event.
Four of the winners are pupils of the Corona School, Lagos; two from Abuja-based Loyola Jesuit College; two from Avi-Cenna International School, and one from Vivian-Fowler Memorial College for Girls, Lagos.

All the categories this year were won by female contestants.


The competition organised for schoolchildren all over the world by Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Japan, in conjunction with its representatives in many countries, challenges them to draw their dream cars with an inspirational idea.
Last year, Nigeria’s Oluwademilade Odumuboni, a 9-year-old boy, then from Corona School Gbagada, Lagos, won the coveted prize, beating other contestants from over 90 countries.
His drawing, titled WASTE CONVERTER, with the concept of helping countries, especially African communities, in food production and ensuring clean environment, was adjudged the best globally in his age category.
All the current nine winners were invited to present their drawings and the idea behind it before receiving their prizes and certificates.
The three winners in the first category; 7 years and below, are all Corona School pupils. Wuraola Aderinsola Onaolapo (1st position), Myra Oyindamola Omokunga (2nd position), and Pemisire Zara Abayomi-John (3rd position).


For the 8-11 years category, the winners are Oluwalani Tamara Oshinubi (1st position), Sochikaima Nwizu (2nd position), and Vivian Ugooma Emeh (3rd position).
And in the third category for 12-15 years, Juditha Sree Reddyvari (1st position), Jiajia Miao (2nd position), and Ayopelumi Modupe Aboderin (3rd position) were unveiled.
TNL MD, Ade-Ojo, said the company chose to identify with the competition as part of its corporate social responsibilities by encouraging the children to develop their creativity and God-given talent.
He said, “We are doing this for the children. It is a means of developing their creativity and reminding them that anything is possible if they can dream. When they start young, it will also be part of them.
“Though it is costing us a lot of money, we are glad we are doing it so that the creativity in them does not diminish.”
Ade-Ojo also commended the teachers and parents for their support, adding, “Without their support, participating in this event would not have been possible.”
One of the parents, Mrs Opeyemi Aboderin, commended Toyota Nigeria for giving the children the opportunity to express their brilliant ideas through drawings.


She expressed gratitude to the company for the huge investment in the future of young children.
She also advised people to always encourage the youth to develop their skills and other talents.
The highpoint of the event was a special recognition given to the art teachers of the winning students.

All invitees were later treated to a grand reception.

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Updated: Weststar sets Nigeria’s auto landscape aglow, unveils new Mercedes-Benz E-Class

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Updated: Weststar sets Nigeria’s auto landscape aglow, unveils new Mercedes-Benz E-Class 

Weststar Associates Limited, the authorized distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Nigeria, has announced the arrival of the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class, a development expected to set the nation’s auto landscape aglow again.

The iconic vehicle is said to set new standards in luxury and innovation, bringing the legend and renowned heritage of the Mercedes-Benz brand to car lovers and enthusiasts in Nigeria.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is described as the epitome of meticulous craftsmanship and technological prowess, with its harmonious blend of cutting-edge technology, exquisite design and unparalleled performance.

Just like its predecessor, the new E-Class promises to redefine the automotive landscape in Nigeria and provide an unrivaled driving experience.

According to the auto firm, the new E-Class marks the advent of a new generation, introducing more technology and luxury.

Specifically, it says the powertrains are complemented by a fresh exterior design, creating a captivating presence on the road.

It says inside the car are new technology features permeating the cabin, providing a digital atmosphere that is both immersive and intelligent.

The new E-Class takes its digital experience to the next level with the all-new Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) Superscreen.This powerful central onboard computer processes information with remarkable speed, delivering near-instantaneous responsiveness.

It integrates a range of apps and games, including TikTok & Angry Birds, making it a versatile tool for both entertainment and productivity.

The Superscreen also introduces the Routines function, an intelligent feature that curates your driving experience based on various conditions and functions, automatically adjusting settings such as heating, cooling, ambient lighting, seat massage, and more.

The MBUX Superscreen also debuts video conferencing in the all-new E-Class, this is enabled by a built-in camera and applications like Webex& Zoom.

The standard Burmester® 4D surround sound system, complemented by Active Ambient Lighting, transforms music into a visual and auditory masterpiece. Coordinated colours and tones are illuminated on the instrument panel, elevating the music-listening experience.

The interior is designed to prioritize comfort and quality. The spacious passenger accommodation is graced with premium materials, including leather upholstery and metal trim, resulting in a rich and upscale ambiance.

The new E-Class remains a four-door layout, emphasizing passenger experience and convenience. It boasts of an aerodynamic design that not only enhances its appearance but also reduces wind noise. With the assistance of nearly 500 microphones, engineers have meticulously measured and minimized wind noise, ensuring a serene cabin environment even at high driving speeds.

The exterior design comes with a host of features such as light alloy wheels, chrome highlights, and a Mercedes-Benz pattern radiator grille.

Additionally, the new E-Class boasts flush-fitted doors and metallic paintwork.

The new E-Class comes with upgraded standard equipment that includes KEYLESS-GO, and the AVANTGARDE equipment line for the interior and exterior.

The new E-Class offers two remarkable powertrains to cater to diverse driving preferences. The E 200 model boasts an advanced 4-cylinder petrol engine with mild hybrid and 48-volt on-board electrical system, delivering a combined power output of 204 horsepower with a torque of 320nm.

While the E 300 model features tremendous pulling power even at low engine speeds, with its advanced 4-cylinder petrol engine with mild hybrid and 48-volt on-board electrical system, it delivers an even more powerful output to 258 horsepower and 400nm of torque.

The E-Class is also equipped with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, which ensures seamless power delivery, and its suspension system includes Airmatic air suspension with ADS+ continuously adjustable damping and rear-axle steering.

The rear-axle steering comes with up to 4.5 degrees of articulation.

At high speeds, this noticeably improves driving stability. While at low and medium speeds, the driver negotiates bends with more agility and benefits from a smaller turning circle when parking and maneuvering.

The firm says at Mercedes-Benz, safety always comes first. This is greatly emphasized in the new E-Class which is equipped with an array of new and extended driving assistance systems; including Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side, Blind Spot Assist, and Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC.

This enhances driver safety and reduces workload, making driving more comfortable and secure for Nigerian road users.

According to the statement, the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class is now available nationwide at Weststar’s authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships such as Barbedos Cars Limited, MB Automobile Services Limited, Skymit Motors Limited, Sunny Motors Limited, and Tetralog Nigeria Limited.

 

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