Benue Govt, Presidential CNG Initiative, Aazarat Energy to Set Up a Centre

[toluwalopesong]

Benue Govt, Presidential CNG Initiative, Aazarat Energy to Set Up Conversion Centre in Makurdi

In a collaborative effort to promote the adoption of compressed natural gas (CNG) as an alternative fuel, the Benue State Government, the Presidential CNG Initiative, and Aazarat Energy Limited have announced plans to establish a CNG conversion centre in Makurdi, the state capital. This initiative is part of the Federal Government's broader agenda to reduce dependence on petrol and mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal.

The conversion centre will focus on retrofitting vehicles to run on CNG, a cleaner and more affordable fuel alternative. Speaking at the announcement, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, expressed optimism about the project, emphasizing its potential to alleviate the economic burden on residents while promoting environmental sustainability. "This partnership demonstrates our commitment to providing practical solutions to the challenges faced by our people," the governor stated.

Aazarat Energy Limited, a leading energy company, will oversee the technical and operational aspects of the centre. According to the company's CEO, Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the facility will initially focus on converting commercial vehicles, including buses and taxis, to CNG. "Our goal is to make CNG accessible and affordable for everyone, ensuring a seamless transition to this alternative fuel," Ibrahim noted.

The Presidential CNG Initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Government, aims to establish CNG as a viable alternative to petrol by investing in infrastructure and incentivizing its adoption. The initiative includes the deployment of CNG-powered buses and the establishment of refueling stations across the country.

Residents of Makurdi have welcomed the development, with many expressing hope that the project will reduce transportation costs and create job opportunities. Energy experts have also highlighted the environmental benefits of CNG, which produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to petrol and diesel.

The conversion centre is expected to commence operations in the second quarter of 2025, with plans to expand its services to other parts of Benue State in the future.