The Association of African Automotive Journalists (AAAJ) has commended President Bola Tinubu for his directive, seeking an immediate rollout of 100,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion kits across the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Tinubu on March 10, directed the rollout of 100,000 CNG to cushion the impact of rising petrol prices on commuters and private vehicle owners.
The President of AAAJ, Mr Mike Ochonma, gave the commendation in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.
Ochonma described the presidential directive as a timely and strategic intervention, capable of easing transportation costs and accelerating Nigeria’s transition to cleaner and cheaper energy alternatives.
“This initiative demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the economic pressure caused by rising cost of fuel and transportation.
“Expanding the adoption of CNG technology will not only provide immediate relief to Nigerians but also strengthen the country’s long-term energy diversification strategy.
“The rollout of 100,000 CNG conversion kits is a bold and commendable step toward cushioning the impact of rising petrol prices on Nigerians and it is well appreciated,” he said.
He added that the initiative could significantly reduce operating costs for commercial transporters and logistics operators, thereby helping to stabilise transportation fares across major Nigerian cities.
“For years, stakeholders in the automotive and energy sectors have advocated for a wider adoption of CNG as a cleaner and more affordable fuel.
“The government’s decision to accelerate the rollout of conversion kits will encourage more vehicle owners to embrace gas-powered mobility and reduce dependence on petrol,” he said.
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Ochonma noted that the policy would stimulate investment in the automotive ecosystem, including conversion centres, refuelling infrastructure, and local manufacturing of related components.
He urged relevant government agencies and private sector partners to ensure that rollout of the kits was accompanied by adequate CNG refuelling stations, safety standards, and technical training for conversion technicians.
“AAAJ believes that with proper infrastructure development and stakeholder collaboration, Nigeria can emerge as a leading CNG mobility hub in Africa while creating jobs and reducing the nation’s fuel import burden,” he said.
The AAAJ president also pledged that the association would continue to play its role in educating the public on alternative mobility solutions, particularly the benefits of CNG and other cleaner automotive technologies across Africa.
AAAJ formed in Kigali, Rwanda on April 24, 2025, brought together automotive journalists from across the African continent to promote excellence in automotive reporting and amplify the voice of Africa’s growing automotive industry.
(NAN)
