Tinubu Expands PiCNG Mandate to Include Electric Vehicles for Cleaner Transport
President Bola Tinubu has officially approved a significant expansion of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PiCNG) to incorporate electric vehicles, marking a strategic move to accelerate Nigeria's transition towards cleaner and more sustainable transportation systems. This new directive renames the initiative as the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (PiCNG & EV), granting it an expanded mandate to lead and coordinate the nation's comprehensive clean mobility strategy.
Enhanced Scope and Infrastructure Development
The revamped initiative will now oversee the nationwide deployment of both gas-powered and electric vehicle infrastructure, positioning Nigeria for a more diversified and energy-efficient transport system. Under this expanded scope, PiCNG & EV will continue to drive the rollout of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure, including mother and daughter stations, integrated refuelling units, CNG vehicles and equipment, as well as large-scale vehicle conversion programmes. Additionally, it will spearhead the development and deployment of electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, and related investments across the country.
The Federal Government has emphasized that gas remains a strategic and cost-effective fuel option for transportation, leveraging Nigeria's abundant reserves to reduce fuel costs, enhance energy security, and conserve foreign exchange. The inclusion of electric vehicles complements these efforts, aiming to deliver an affordable, efficient, and environmentally sustainable mobility system.
Implementation and Support Measures
To fast-track implementation, President Tinubu has directed the Executive Chairman of PiCNG & EV to immediately establish a coordinated framework for the rapid nationwide deployment of vehicle conversion kits. He stressed that these kits must be made available to Nigerians at affordable rates. To support this objective, the initiative will collaborate with CreditCorp Nigeria, financial institutions, and other partners to develop flexible and cost-effective financing options that will enable wider access to vehicle conversion.
Furthermore, the President approved the accelerated deployment of Mobile Refuelling Units (MRUs) to improve access to CNG, particularly in underserved areas, while permanent infrastructure continues to expand nationwide. This move is part of a broader commitment to reducing reliance on conventional fuels and promoting cleaner energy alternatives in Nigeria's transport sector.
Administration's Commitment to Clean Energy
Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, explained in a statement on Thursday that this expansion underscores the administration's dedication to fostering a greener and more sustainable future. By integrating electric vehicles into the PiCNG framework, the government aims to create a holistic approach to clean mobility, addressing both immediate and long-term environmental and economic challenges.
This initiative reflects a proactive step towards aligning Nigeria with global trends in renewable energy and transportation innovation, ensuring that the country remains competitive and resilient in the face of evolving energy landscapes.
