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NNPC reaffirms commitment to peace, responsible energy development in Ogoniland

Michael Simire
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NNPC reaffirms commitment to peace, responsible energy development in Ogoniland

The Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and responsible energy development in Ogoniland, describing the Federal Government’s renewed engagement as a demonstration of hope and a new beginning built on partnership and understanding.

Ojulari disclosed this while speaking during a Federal Government delegation’s visit to Ogoniland, in Rivers State, on Monday, December 22, 2025.‎

“This visit is a demonstration of hope. It affirms the commitment of the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to peace, dialogue, and rebuilding trust. For NNPC Limited, it marks a new beginning – one grounded in partnership, mutual respect, and shared responsibility,” Ojulari stated.

NNPC
R-L: GCEO NNPC Ltd, Bashir Bayo Ojulari (2nd right), with the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara; Minister of Works, Dave Umahi; and Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal, during a Federal Government delegation’s visit to Ogoniland, in Rivers State, on Monday

While acknowledging the painful history of Ogoniland, the GCEO emphasized that recognising the past is essential to building a different future.

He commended the Presidential Committee on Ogoni Re-entry, led by Professor Don Baridam, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for their steady leadership in building confidence and trust.

According to the Group CEO, NNPC Ltd.’s mission in Ogoniland goes beyond resource extraction, but one that places people, livelihoods, and the environment at the centre of its operations. “We believe wholeheartedly that energy development must go hand in hand with environmental protection and community wellbeing,” he said.

Reaffirming NNPC Ltd.’s responsibility to host communities, the Group CEO offered assurances on welfare, security, and opportunity.

“I am delighted to share that one of our commitments to the people of Ogoni is becoming a reality. The process for the full-time employment of 30 Ogoni indigenes has reached its final stage, with employment offers already issued. We look forward with pride to welcoming them as they resume work in January 2026, marking a meaningful step toward shared progress and opportunity for our communities,” he stated.

On his part, the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, expressed gratitude for President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to finding lasting solutions to a decades-long, recurring issue in Ogoniland, which is now beginning to yield positive results.

“We had our first meeting with Mr. President, and certain commitments were made to improve the quality of life in Ogoniland. He has begun to fulfill those promises, starting with road construction. We were assured of confidence-building efforts, the establishment of a University of Environment, hospitals, an industrial park, employment opportunities, and several other initiatives. As of today, 30 young men and women of Ogoni origin have already been employed by NNPC Ltd.” he concluded.

In his remarks, National Security Adviser of Nigeria, Nuhu Ribadu, who represented President Tinubu during the engagement, thanked the Governor of Rivers State and stakeholders from Ogoniland for their cooperation and collective efforts in addressing long-standing challenges inherited in the region.

“We have worked as one, and we are here today because of the Ogoni people, to thank them on behalf of Nigeria. Rivers State is now one of the most peaceful states in the country, and that’s largely due to the leadership of a responsible Governor and the good people of Ogoniland,” the NSA added.

Located in Ogoniland and operated by the NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), a flagship upstream subsidiary of NNPC Ltd, OML-11 is Nigeria’s largest onshore block, with Ogoniland holding over 40% of its recoverable reserves.

Lagos to step up control of informal spaces across the state

Michael Simire
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Lagos to step up control of informal spaces across the state

The Lagos State Government has stated that it is set to take decisive steps to regulate and administer informal spaces across the state, in line with its physical planning mandate.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, made this known on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, while outlining the Ministry’s strategic direction for the coming year.

He explained that the Ministry would invoke the powers conferred on it by the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law, 2019 (as amended) to ensure orderly use of land and sustainable urban growth.

Oluyinka Olumide
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide

His words: “The Law vests the Ministry with the statutory responsibility for physical planning, land-use management, development coordination, and the regulation of spatial activities across the State, mandates that clearly encompass the administration of informal spaces.”

He stated that informal spaces were public open areas not designated for permanent use but increasingly occupied without planning approval, adding that the uncontrolled use of road setbacks, walkways, under-bridge areas, drainage corridors, and undeveloped government land posed risks to safety, mobility, and the environment.

According to him, the planned assumption of full administrative control over informal spaces was aimed at strengthening land-use planning, achieving integrated urban development, and curbing unregulated activities in key corridors, gateways, and transitional zones across the State.

The Commissioner disclosed that plans had been concluded to embark on extensive sensitisation and engagement of internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, market associations, transport unions, community leaders, and other interest groups, as such engagement would be critical to ensuring cooperation, compliance, and shared ownership of the initiative.

He emphasised that the intervention was not merely regulatory but strategic, as it sought to promote orderliness at the frontiers of the state, enhance urban aesthetics, improve functionality of public spaces, and protect the integrity of the physical environment.

He further stated that effective control of informal spaces would contribute to improved mobility, safety, environmental quality, and the overall liveability of Lagos, while aligning with the State’s vision for a resilient, inclusive, and well-planned megacity.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry to deploy professional planning tools, inter-agency collaboration, and community participation to ensure that the exercise was carried out in a transparent, lawful, and sustainable manner.

IPI Nigeria condemns arrest and detention of journalist’s wife, nine-month-old baby

Michael Simire
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IPI Nigeria condemns arrest and detention of journalist’s wife, nine-month-old baby

The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has condemned the arrest and detention of Mrs. Adenike Atanda and her nine-month-old baby by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.

Mrs. Atanda was detained for several hours on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Owutu Police Station, Ikorodu, Lagos, in place of her husband, Mr. Sodeeq Atanda, a journalist with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).

IPI Nigeria understands that police officers tracked Mrs. Atanda and her infant to their neighbourhood and arrested them while Mr. Atanda was not at home. Neither Mrs. Atanda nor her nine-month-old child is a journalist, a suspect, or accused of any offence.

Kayode Egbetokun
Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun

The arrest, according to IPI Nigeria, constitutes a clear and unlawful arrest by proxy, in violation of Section 7 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 and Section 36 of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, both of which unequivocally prohibit the arrest of any person in place of a suspect.

Beyond the illegal arrest, Mrs. Atanda was subjected to harassment and psychological pressure. 

Officers coerced her into falsely telling her husband that their infant was gravely ill in order to lure him out, effectively using a nursing mother and her baby as bait. The child was subjected to needless trauma and distress.

Their only “offence” was their relationship to a journalist.

“That this egregious violation of the law was carried out by officers attached to the IGP Monitoring Unit is particularly disturbing, coming barely weeks after IPI Nigeria listed the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, in its Book of Infamy for violations of press freedom,” IPI Nigeria said in a statement.

Following that listing, the Inspector-General initiated engagement with IPI Nigeria and expressed commitment to improving police–media relations. He further mandated the IGP Monitoring Unit to engage with IPI Nigeria to address the growing pattern of harassment of journalists nationwide.

Ironically, the very unit designated for that engagement is said to have executed one of the most brazen violations of journalists’ rights witnessed in recent times.

In protest against this abuse of power, IPI Nigeria has suspended all engagements with the Nigeria Police Force until there is clear evidence of accountability, respect for the rule of law, and an end to hostility towards journalists.

Mrs. Atanda and her baby were released only after Mr. Atanda presented himself to the police. He was subsequently arrested, handcuffed, and detained, and was released only after the intervention of IPI Nigeria.

IPI Nigeria therefore demands the following:

– A public apology by the Nigeria Police Force to Mrs. Adenike Atanda and her nine-month-old baby;

– Adequate compensation for the unlawful arrest, detention, and trauma inflicted on them;

– The immediate arrest, investigation, and prosecution of all officers who instigated and carried out this illegal action;

– The dismissal from service of those officers, as a deterrent to future abuses.

IPI Nigeria further insists that Mr. Sodeeq Atanda be allowed to carry out his legitimate journalistic duties without intimidation or harassment. 

“The police must refrain from meddling in civil or commercial disputes properly within the jurisdiction of the courts and should advise complainants to seek redress through lawful judicial processes.

“The persistent abuse of power by police officers thrives largely because acts of misconduct are rarely punished. Instead, officers who violate the law are often shielded and, in some cases, rewarded.

“This culture of impunity incentivises further violations and continues to erode public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

“IPI Nigeria observes with grave concern that indiscipline is too frequently tolerated in the Nigeria Police. Officers who have no business wearing the uniform continue to operate unchecked, worsening the already battered image of the police.

“We, therefore, call on the Inspector-General of Police to act decisively by purging the Force of officers unfit to serve and by demonstrating, through concrete action, a genuine commitment to reform, accountability, and respect for press freedom.”

Edo reaffirms commitment to affordable housing

Michael Simire
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Edo reaffirms commitment to affordable housing

The Edo State Government on Monday, December 22, 2025, reaffirmed its commitment to repositioning the state’s housing sector to ensue delivery of affordable houses to workers.

Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Yakubu Musa, disclosed this during an inspection tour of the de-reserved 250 hectares of land, at the Ogba Forest Reserve in Ugogogin community, Oredo Local Government Area of the state.

Musa said that the goal is to ensure delivery of affordable housing for low-income earners, as well as civil and public servants.

Monday Okpebholo
Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo State

According to him, the sites, strategically located among Evbuodia, Ulemon, Okua, and Umegbe communities, were being considered for housing development

Musa noted that the project would involve collaboration with the Ministry of Works, to provide road access and other critical infrastructure.

The inspection team also visited Emotan Gardens Phases I and II, a housing project comprising 68 housing units on approximately 69 hectares of land.

The Commissioner observed that a significant portion of the land remained underutilised, and assured that the government would review the situation as well as issues relating to property ownership and effective land management.

Musa further emphasised that the state government is prioritising housing development as a key component of improving the welfare of Edo citizens.

He stated that the government would continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to implement policies and programmes that guarantee decent and affordable housing.

Those present during the inspection tour included: Valerie Daubry, Federal Controller, Edo Field Headquarters, and Federal Ministry of Lands and Housing.

Others are the Surveyor-General of the state; Directors from the Ministry of Lands and Housing; and officials of the Edo State Development and Property Corporation, among others.

By Imelda Osayande

Oil spill: Govt vows to enforce environmental laws in Ogoniland

Michael Simire
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Oil spill: Govt vows to enforce environmental laws in Ogoniland

The Federal Government of Nigeria has vowed strict enforcement of environmental regulations in Ogoniland as it steps up efforts to address the oil spill at Yorla Well 14 in the Kpean community, Rivers State.

Director-General and Chief Executive of National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Chukwuemeka Woke, stated this on Monday, December 22, 2025, during an inspection visit to the spill site, where he led a high-powered federal delegation to assess environmental damage and ongoing remediation efforts.

Woke stressed that oil operators must act swiftly to contain and remediate spills, while host communities must cooperate with authorities to prevent further environmental harm.

Chukwuemeka Woke
Director-General, National Oil Spillage Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Chief Chukwuemeka Woke

“NOSDRA will not compromise on the enforcement of environmental regulations. Operators are expected to respond promptly to oil spill incidents, and host communities must also play their part by allowing access to facilities to avoid worsening environmental damage,” he said.

According to the NOSDRA boss, findings from the site showed that the spill at Yorla Well 14 persisted beyond the Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) concluded on August 8, 2025.

He explained that although the source of the spill was identified, initial denial of access to the facility by the host community delayed repairs by the operator, Nigeria Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), resulting in a secondary spill and necessitating urgent federal intervention.

Woke noted that sustained community engagement remains critical to achieving lasting solutions to oil spill challenges in Ogoniland and the wider Niger Delta.

He added that the inspection visit underscored NOSDRA’s statutory responsibility to respond promptly to oil spill incidents and ensure that polluted environments are fully restored to their pristine state.

Engr Woke assured residents of Ogoniland that NOSDRA would continue to diligently discharge its mandate, working with all stakeholders to ensure accountability, timely remediation, and long-term environmental protection in the region.

Also speaking during the visit, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, warned against a recurrence of such incidents, calling for improved surveillance and enhanced protection of critical oil assets and infrastructure across Ogoniland.

He stressed that safeguarding oil facilities is essential to preventing environmental degradation and associated economic losses.

In his remarks, the Group Managing Director of NNPC Limited, Bashir Ojulari, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to a comprehensive cleanup and remediation of the affected area, assuring that all necessary technical assessments would be carried out to ensure full environmental restoration.

The inspection team also included the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, and the Project Coordinator of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, reflecting the Federal Government’s coordinated approach to tackling environmental pollution in the Niger Delta.

Niger Delta Youth Council pledge collaboration with PINL in securing oil assets

Michael Simire
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Niger Delta Youth Council pledge collaboration with PINL in securing oil assets

The Leadership of the Niger Delta Youth Council Worldwide (NDYC-W) at a stakeholders’ engagement meeting on Monday, December 22, 2025, pledged to collaborate with Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) in safeguarding oil assets.

The meeting focused on enhancing security in the Niger Delta region.

In a communique, signed and issued by Jator Abido, National Coordinator of NDYC-W, the group commended the leadership of Niger Delta Development Commission and the board, led by Chiedu Ebie and Dr Samuel Ogbuku, for their efforts in regional development.

NDYC-W
NDYC-W members and guests at the stakeholders’ engagement meeting

He said that the meeting is focusing on enhancing security in the Niger Delta region.

The communique also commended President Bola Tinubu, for appointing a new Minister of Defence.

According to the group: “We call on all youths to support security agencies in safeguarding the region.

“We as a Council equally condole with Bayelsa State Government on the passing of the Deputy Governor.

“The NDYC-W commended Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited for community engagement programs and pledged partnership to protect critical oil infrastructure.”

Abido warned non-indigenous groups perpetuating violence (herdsmen, bandits, cult groups) that their activities won’t be tolerated in the region.

The council urged all groups to embrace peace and coexist with Niger Delta communities in this Yuletide season.

Also, the NDYC-W launched its maiden edition of the Niger Delta Chronicle newspaper, a monthly publication aimed at being the leading voice of the Region’s media.

By Shedrack Frank

AfDB, Nedbank Group sign multi-billion-rand funding partnership to transform housing access, boost African trade

Michael Simire
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AfDB, Nedbank Group sign multi-billion-rand funding partnership to transform housing access, boost African trade

The African Development Bank Group and Nedbank Group have signed a landmark deal to boost access to affordable housing in South Africa and strengthen trade across the continent.

The financing package comprises two components: a ZAR 2.5 billion social bond investment in Nedbank Group Limited and a $60 million trade finance Risk Participation Agreement with Nedbank Limited of South Africa.

Together, the initiatives aim to narrow Africa’s trade finance gap, accelerate intra-African trade, and improve access to housing – two essential drivers of inclusive economic growth.

Kennedy Mbekeani
Kennedy Mbekeani, African Development Bank’s Director General for Southern Africa

The social bond is listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, with proceeds channeled through Nedbank’s Sustainable Finance Fundraising Framework. Funding will prioritise affordable housing for women and first-time homeowners, as well as green-certified units, reinforcing the Bank and Nedbank’s shared commitment to gender equality, climate resilience, and financial inclusion. The bond will contribute to achieving the African Development Bank’s vision for inclusive growth.

“This partnership builds on our shared commitment to drive financial access for underserved communities and transform living conditions across South Africa,” said Kennedy Mbekeani, African Development Bank’s Director General for Southern Africa. “It marks a significant milestone in our nearly two-decade relationship with Nedbank Group, unlocking critical financing where it’s needed most while strengthening our financial system’s resilience.”

The $60 million trade finance Risk Participation Agreement will provide crucial credit risk cover for Nedbank’s partnership with local banks issuing documentary letters of credit and similar trade instruments across the continent, including in Low-Income Countries and Transition States. This mechanism will help close the continent’s trade finance gap and accelerate intra-African trade.

“This landmark partnership with the African Development Bank Group represents a pivotal step in our drive to deliver real impact for communities across South Africa and the continent. By mobilising funding for affordable housing, especially for women and first-time buyers, and supporting trade finance for local banks, we are helping to unlock opportunities for inclusive growth and sustainable development,” said Jason Quinn, Chief Executive, Nedbank Group. “It underscores our commitment to enabling financial access, fostering climate resilience, and driving economic transformation through innovative, purpose-driven sustainable financing.”

Ahmed Attout, the African Development Bank’s Director for the Financial Sector Development Department, said: “We are proud of our shared commitment to sustainable financing, particularly through local debt capital markets. This intervention builds on our previous support in 2020, when we invested in Nedbank’s inaugural green bond to support renewable energy access in South Africa. It also demonstrates the African Development Bank’s leading role in bridging the continent’s trade finance gap.”

The initiative aligns with the African Development Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024 – 2033) to transform African economies through industrialisation, regional integration, and improved quality of life for all Africans. By combining innovative housing finance with trade facilitation, the agreement advances inclusive, sustainable economic development across Africa.  

Yuletide: Nigerians brave high fares, security concerns to travel

Michael Simire
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Yuletide: Nigerians brave high fares, security concerns to travel

Some residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have continued to brave rising transport fares and security concerns to travel home for the Christmas celebration.

The travellers said on Monday, December 22, 2025, in Bwari, Abuja, that Christmas represented family identity and was a non-negotiable tradition.

At the Peace Mass Transit Park, Mr. Mathew Okah, said that in spite of financial pressure and security fears, he would still travel to celebrate with his family in the South-East.

FCT
Passengers at a motor park in Bwari Area Council, FCT

“I go home for Christmas every year because my family is in the East and I have been working in Abuja throughout the year.

“I travel not just to see them, but also to rest. There is no place like home.

“Family time is sacred for some of us; you get to see your aged parents, take home something to celebrate with them, and reunite with extended family members,” he said.

Okah added that travelling home also gave him the opportunity to fulfil cultural and communal obligations.

Another traveller, Mrs. Victoria Jacob, who was travelling with her children, described Christmas travel as a necessity.

“I always feel like I am missing a part of life if I stay back in Abuja during the festivities,” she said.

Although she described the cost of transportation as painful, Jacob said people accepted the doubling or tripling of fares because it was a yearly sacrifice.

On security concerns, she said: “We have survived worse situations. God will protect us. We just have to avoid night travel and unsafe routes while we pray and trust God for safety.”

Meanwhile, a resident of Bwari, Mr. Kelechi John, said travelling home every Christmas was not a necessity for him.

He cited insecurity, financial strain, and work commitments as reasons for staying back, adding that some people travelled due to cultural pressure or fear of being judged for “forgetting home.”

This, he said, often led people to travel even when they could not afford it, resulting in avoidable discomfort.

“We’ll stay back this year. Let’s stay alive first; the village will still be there. We will plan when fares drop and the rush is less,” he said.

A correspondent observed that commercial bus fares from Bwari to the southern and eastern parts of the country ranged from N60,000 to N80,000 per passenger.

Meanwhile fares to Kaduna and other neighbouring northern towns ranged between N8,000 and N10,000.

By Veronica Dariya

Okonjo-Iweala hails Abia Electric Bus Scheme as climate-friendly initiative

Michael Simire
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Okonjo-Iweala hails Abia Electric Bus Scheme as climate-friendly initiative

The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has commended the Abia State Government for introducing electric buses to tackle pollution and climate change.

Okonjo-Iweala gave the commendation on Monday, December 22, 2025, during the launch of the first phase of Abia Green Shuttle Electric Bus Service with 20 electric buses at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia.

She described the initiative as a bold and forward-looking step, noting that climate change and environmental pollution remained among the world’s most pressing challenges.

Ngozi
Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. Photo credit: flickr.com

According to her, although Africa contributes only about three per cent of global carbon emissions, the continent must still play its part in promoting a cleaner and more sustainable environment.

The WTO boss said Abia’s decision to deploy electric buses demonstrated leadership and commitment to global climate responsibility.

The onetime Finance Minister praised Abia government and other stakeholders for driving the initiative, which she said, would help improve air quality in the state.

Okonjo-Iweala expressed optimism that the project would mark the beginning of broader environmentally friendly transport reforms in Abia.

She congratulated the state government on the achievement and urged it to sustain the momentum in climate-smart development initiatives.

In his speech, Gov. Alex Otti of Abia described the introduction of electric buses in the state as a strategic move towards net-zero emissions and sustainable urban transportation.

Otti said that the initiative marked a significant transition from the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to fully electric vehicles in line with global climate targets.

He said that although CNG buses were cleaner, they still produced emissions, prompting the state to adopt electric buses as a long-term solution.

Otti explained that the procurement process was reviewed to ensure the buses were compliant with the needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

“We are starting small so maybe not all the 20 will be on the road at the same time but at least you will see a sizable number.

“And as we learn, as we use them, we learn and correct, so we are not going to promise you heaven on earth.

“I am pleased to announce that all 20 electric buses commissioned today are fully PWD-compliant,” he said.

Otti said that the project faced initial logistical challenges following delays in the delivery of charging stations due to a maritime accident, but the state devised alternative solutions.

He said that the charging stations were already operational in Umuahia, with additional installations planned for Aba, Ohafia and other parts of the state.

Otti said that the buses would begin scheduled operations from Tuesday, noting that deployment would be gradual to allow learning and system adjustments.

He said that the buses could travel between 400kilometres and 450 kilometres on a full charge, depending on usage conditions.

The governor said that the electric buses would operate free of charge for residents from Tuesday until January to familiarise commuters with the new system.

He added that surveillance cameras had been installed in the buses to ensure safety and order, warning that misconduct would attract prosecution.

Otti said Abia recently emerged as the state with the lowest public transportation costs in Nigeria, adding that the electric buses would further reduce transport expenses.

He expressed appreciation to the state’s transport and power commissioners and technical partners for working round the clock to deliver the project.

The governor urged residents to maintain orderly conduct at bus stations and give priority to persons living with disabilities.

The President of Coscharis Group, Dr Cosmos Maduka, said that Abia had provided national leadership by becoming Nigeria’s first state to officially launch electric buses for public transportation.

Maduka said that the launch marked Abia as the first state to deploy electric buses, expressing confidence that other states would soon follow the initiative.

He disclosed that Coscharis initially proposed compressed natural gas buses but commended the governor for insisting on electric-powered vehicles.

Maduka said that the governor maintained that electrification was non-negotiable, noting that the project had moved from vision to reality.

He highlighted features of the buses, including air-conditioning, surveillance cameras and onboard charging ports, saying the service was designed for residents across social classes.

He predicted the buses would reduce dependence on tricycles and motorcycles in urban centres, assuring commuters of comfort under the Abia Green Shuttle Bus Service.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, described the launch as a historic milestone in Abia’s transport evolution.

Ukaegbu attributed the achievement to Gov. Otti’s leadership and forward-thinking agenda to reposition the state for innovation, sustainability and inclusive development.

He said the electric bus programme would deliver environmental and long-term economic benefits, including job creation and skills development.

The commissioner assured residents of continued expansion of the scheme in collaboration with transport unions and stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition.

The buses are expected to ply major routes in the state including Umuahia, Aba, Umunneochi, Ohafia, and Ukwa West.

The event featured a test ride around the city of Umuahia to signal the official commencement of the Abia Green Shuttle Electric Bus Service.

By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom

CNG initiative requires policy, infrastructure push, expert says

Michael Simire
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0
CNG initiative requires policy, infrastructure push, expert says

A material engineering expert and researcher, Dr Kazeem Abubakar, says the potential and opportunities existing in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) can be harnessed if the government provides policy support and required infrastructure.

Abubakar, also Assistant Director of Research at the National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM), said this in an interview in Abuja on Monday, December 22, 2025.

He said that with infrastructure development and public engagement, CNG had the potential to not only reduce transport costs and emissions, but also to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s progress towards SDGs.

CNG station
CNG station

He said it was important to note that delivering cleaner air, new jobs, economic growth, and a more sustainable future for Nigerians was not negotiable.

“Nigeria’s pivot toward CNG, backed by renewed policy focus and private investment, represents a strategic and timely effort to harness the country’s abundant natural gas for sustainable mobility and energy security.

“Although the current adoption is still small relative to potential, the gain, to date, is that over 100,000 vehicles have been converted, hundreds of conversion centers and refuelling points, rising investment flows.

“This demonstrates that CNG can become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s clean-energy transition,’’ he said.

Abubakar argued that to scale and deliver on the potentials and opportunities in converting gasoline/diesel cars to CNG, coordinated action is needed on multiple fronts.

He said those to include accelerating infrastructure deployment, expanding refuelling stations, compression hubs, and certified conversion centres nationwide.

He further advocated scaling up conversion incentives, which could come through subsidies or support for conversion kits, especially for low-income vehicle owners and commercial operators.

“Awareness and safety campaigns, policy consistency and regulation, linking CNG with broader gas utilisation policy are important in the project,’’ he said.

Abubakar said lower emissions from CNG vehicles contribute to Nigeria’s emissions-reduction targets and help its climate-change mitigation efforts.

“The expansion of gas-distribution networks, refuelling stations, and conversion infrastructure support industrialisation and modern energy system development initiatives,” he added.

By Sylvester Thompson

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