In a significant stride towards Nigeria’s energy transformation, Mr Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), presided over the launch of the Presidential CNG Initiative’s (Pi-CNG) Conversion Incentive Program for the rideshare sector. This initiative, unveiled at NASENI’s state-of-the-art Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Engineering, Training, and Conversion facility in Utako, Abuja, marks a pivotal moment in the agency’s mission to deliver cutting-edge, technology-driven solutions to the nation.
The launch, held at the NASENI-Portland CNG Conversion Centre, attracted notable dignitaries, including the Honourable Minister of State for Gas, Petroleum Resources, Hon. Ekperipe Ekpo, who served as the Special Guest of Honour. Also in attendance was the Honourable Minister for Information and National Orientation, represented by the Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr Muhammed Bulama, alongside key stakeholders from the energy and technology sectors.
In his address, Mr Halilu underscored the critical role of the Pi-CNG Initiative in Nigeria’s ongoing gas revolution, highlighting its emergence as a cornerstone in discussions surrounding the country’s energy future. “Just over two months ago, we commissioned this comprehensive CNG facility in collaboration with Portland and Dana Motors,” he remarked. “This joint venture is an embodiment of NASENI’s vision to rapidly deliver market-ready products that not only reduce the cost of living but also enhance the quality of life for Nigerians, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The Conversion Incentive Program, specifically targeted at the rideshare sector, offers a substantial 50 per cent discount to Uber and Bolt drivers who enrol and utilise the newly launched MY-CNG App. This initiative, as explained by Mr Halilu, is designed to address the nation’s current economic challenges by providing a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly fuel alternative. “CNG is a cleaner, more affordable vehicle fuel, with the potential to cut transportation costs by up to 70 per cent and deliver 40 per cent savings for car owners,” he explained, positioning the initiative as a critical response to the economic pressures faced by many Nigerians.
Mr Halilu further emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving these ambitious goals, extending his gratitude to partners Pi-CNG, Portland, and Dana Motors for their unwavering commitment. “Together, we are poised to transform Nigeria’s energy and transportation sectors,” he affirmed, underscoring the transformative potential of the partnership.
The launch of the MY-CNG App and the Conversion Incentive Program underscores NASENI’s commitment to leveraging technology as a catalyst for national transformation. Mr Halilu concluded by reiterating NASENI’s pivotal role as a technology enabler, working closely with the private sector to bring innovative solutions to market and support Nigeria’s broader development objectives, including energy efficiency, climate action, job creation, and poverty alleviation.
NASENI continues to lead the charge as Nigeria’s foremost technology-transfer agency, dedicated to fostering innovation, research, and development to fuel the country’s industrial growth and economic sustainability.
