Delta Government Partners with NIPCO Gas to Launch CNG Conversion Centre
ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Government and NIPCO Gas Limited have signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle conversion centre in the state, marking a significant step towards sustainable and cost-effective transportation.
The signing ceremony, which took place on Thursday in Asaba, saw the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Onoriode Agofure, and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, represent the state government. Mr. Sanjay Tarat, Chief Operating Officer of NIPCO Gas Limited, signed on behalf of the company.
Dr. Emu, speaking after the signing, emphasized that the establishment of the CNG conversion centre was a key initiative of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration. He noted that the project was aimed at providing a convenient location for Asaba residents to convert their petrol-powered vehicles to CNG-powered ones.
“This is a deliberate effort by Governor Oborevwori to provide a sustainable solution for the residents of Asaba,” Dr. Emu said. “We are committed to ensuring this project moves forward, but it must be done according to the highest standards. Timeliness and quality are very important to the Governor, and we will not hesitate to revoke this MoU if the company fails to perform.”
The state government has already provided a 3,000-square-meter facility in the heart of Asaba to kickstart the project. Dr. Emu stressed the importance of CNG conversion for the future of transportation, citing Governor Oborevwori’s personal commitment to the cause, including his use of CNG and Electric Vehicles (EV).
“We have laid the foundation for a future where CNG vehicles are the norm,” Dr. Emu continued. “This partnership with NIPCO is crucial in ensuring the state’s readiness for the transition. Without CNG stations, we cannot move forward, and that’s why we are starting here in Asaba.”
Following the MoU signing, the delegation visited the project site located on Summit Road, near the Inter Bau Roundabout in Asaba. Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Agofure, led the team and highlighted the economic benefits of CNG, calling it a more cost-effective alternative to petrol. He urged residents to embrace this new form of energy for transportation.
In addition, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, elaborated on the careful planning that preceded the project’s launch. He explained that a feasibility study had shown the importance of establishing CNG stations before introducing CNG buses.
“We cannot introduce CNG buses without a reliable network of refuelling stations,” Aniagwu said. “Once the Asaba centre is operational, we plan to expand to other major cities like Warri, and eventually to the local government headquarters across the state.”
The Chief Operating Officer of NIPCO Gas Limited, Mr. Sanjay Tarat, expressed his gratitude to Governor Oborevwori and the state government for facilitating the project. He assured the government that the conversion centre would be completed within six months, if not sooner, and pledged to adhere to all regulatory requirements.
“Delta State is the first in Nigeria to provide this kind of location for CNG,” Tarat said. “We are committed to delivering this project on time and proving that CNG is the future of transportation.”
The collaboration between the Delta State Government and NIPCO Gas Limited marks a pivotal moment in the state’s efforts to reduce transportation costs and promote environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional fuel sources. With the establishment of the CNG conversion centre, Delta State is poised to lead the way in sustainable transportation across Nigeria.
