The economic reforms of Mr President Bola Tinubu's administration which includes the removal of fuel subsidy has engineered a shift in Nigeria's energy landscape. With the fluctuating global oil prices, the government has been compelled to explore alternative fuel sources to reduce the country's dependence on petroleum products. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) has emerged as a viable option, gaining considerable attention as a cleaner, cheaper, and more sustainable energy source for motorists.
Nigeria, with its vast gas reserves of approximately 206 trillion standard cubic feet, is shifting gears towards harnessing this natural resource to power its vehicular movement. To drive this vision forward, the federal government, in partnership with the Cross River State government, recently launched a state-of-the-art CNG conversion centre in Calabar. This innovation hub will help vehicle owners convert their petroleum-powered cars to gas-powered ones to enhance a cleaner, cheaper and more sustainable transportation sector.
This project, driven by the the Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu through his results-oriented Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr Justin Beshel, with support from the Commissioner for Transport and Special Adviser Oil and Gas, is set to revolutionize the way vehicles are powered not just in the state but the entire South/South region.
As the biggest CNG conversion centre in Nigeria yet, this facility boast of an impressive capacity to convert 18 cars at once. This development of course, aligns with the United Nations advocacy for alternative energy sources to reduce the world's reliance on fossil fuels. With Nigeria, as a signatory to UN Climate Change Conference, the importance of this to the country's adoption of gas as a transition fuel can not be overemphasized.
Besides, beyond its conversion capabilities, the Calabar centre will also function as a training hub for the South-South geopolitical zone. With an initial intake of 200 trainees, this initiative will equip technicians and professionals with the skills necessary to maintain and service CNG-powered vehicles. This investment in human capital will not only create jobs but also foster a culture of sustainability and innovation in the state and geopolitical zone at large.
The training programme offered at the centre will comprise two modules: a six-month and a three-month course. These comprehensive programmes will cover various aspects of CNG technology, including installation, maintenance, and repair. By providing hands-on training, the centre will empower trainees with the expertise needed to excel in this emerging field.
Initially conceived as a Fabrication Academy by the Sen. Ben Ayade’s administration, the entire complex will now serve as a Technical Training Institute (TTI), offering a broader range of courses including woodwork, carpentry, foundry, welding, fabrication, solar power installation, and industrial training. This expansion will transform the facility into a holistic technical training academy that'll cater for diverse interests and skills.
To achieve this vision, Blu Stone Gas and Power Ltd will provide the necessary manpower to transform the centre into an edge-cutting training facility. With their expertise, the centre will become a hub for technical excellence, driving innovation and growth in the state.
The Federal Government has demonstrated its commitment to this project by donating 500 CNG conversion kits, with more on the way. This support will ensure the centre's success and facilitate the widespread adoption of CNG technology in Cross River and beyond.
Achieved at no immediate cost to the state government, the launch is not just a significant plus for Gov. Otu's administration but the entire people of Cross River. Its impact will be felt across the length and breadth of the state as young people will be empowered with skills, new jobs while the state becomes one of the reference points in the country's emerging gas-based economy.
Inyali Peter, Fearlessreports.com
