Lucky Obukohwo Reporting
The Edo State Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to accelerate the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) across the state as part of measures to cushion residents from the rising cost of fuel and transportation.
Commissioner for Oil and Gas Resources, Hon. Andrew Momodu, disclosed this while outlining the government’s strategy to develop a more affordable and sustainable energy framework for residents.
Momodu said the government was engaging investors, CNG conversion operators and petroleum marketers to expand access to CNG and provide residents with cheaper alternatives to petrol.
According to him, investors have expressed readiness to support vehicle owners in converting petrol-powered vehicles to CNG, with plans to provide credit facilities to beneficiaries.
He said state civil servants would be among the first groups to access the financing scheme.
The Commissioner disclosed that a registration platform had already been established to enable interested civil servants to indicate their interest and participate in the conversion programme.
He added that the government was also working towards establishing CNG refuelling stations across Edo State to improve accessibility and encourage wider adoption of the cleaner and potentially more cost-effective fuel.
Momodu said the initiative was part of the state government’s broader efforts to reduce the impact of high energy costs on households, workers and businesses while promoting a more efficient and sustainable transportation system.
He said Governor Monday Okpebholo had directed the ministry to pursue the development of CNG facilities, with the long-term goal of making Edo a supply hub for other states.
Momodu also highlighted Edo’s gas potential, noting that the state contributes about 37 per cent of Nigeria’s gas supply, according to figures he cited.
On fuel prices, the commissioner said the government had engaged petroleum marketers to consider residents’ economic difficulties and moderate their profit margins.
He added that a benchmark had been established with marketers to discourage excessive pricing, despite the absence of a regulated pump price in the state.
Addressing concerns over bad roads, Momodu said the government was aware of the situation and had engaged the governor on road rehabilitation.
He attributed delays in some projects to heavy rainfall, saying construction would receive renewed attention when weather conditions improve.
Momodu assured residents that the ministry would continue working to unlock Edo’s oil and gas potential and translate its natural resources into tangible benefits for the people.
