Experts Warn Against Mandatory CNG Switch for Vehicles

In Lagos, experts have expressed concerns regarding Barr. Ismael Ahmed's proposal for mandatory conversion of commercial vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG) or electric vehicles. Ahmed, the Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on CNG and Electric Vehicles (PI-CNG&EV), stated that he aims to convince the government to adopt this policy to promote cleaner transportation.

However, analysts warn that implementing this policy prematurely could exacerbate inflation and raise transport fares. Key issues include a shortage of CNG-powered vehicles, insufficient refuelling infrastructure, and the high costs associated with converting existing petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles.

Critics argue that without adequate preparation, the transition could create scarcity, allowing operators with converted vehicles to set higher fares. Transportation expert George Banjo cautioned that enforcing the proposal without ensuring sufficient CNG vehicles and infrastructure could disrupt public transportation, leaving many Nigerians without reliable options.