As Nigeria navigates the current economic downturn and petrol price hikes, embracing alternative energy solutions has become imperative. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) emerges as a viable and sustainable option, offering numerous benefits, including efficiency, cost-effectiveness, clean engine and environmental sustainability.

Nigeria's current economic climate, marked by soaring petrol prices, underscores the critical need for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a viable alternative. With fuel costs crippling citizens and businesses, and purchasing power dwindling, CNG offers a beacon of hope.

CNG presents a timely solution to mitigate these challenges. CNG is composed primarily of methane (CH4), with small amounts of other hydrocarbons. The production process involves:

1. Natural Gas Extraction

2. Processing and Purification

3. Compression

4. Storage and Transportation

CNG boasts several characteristics that make it an attractive alternative to traditional fuels:

1. Energy Density: CNG contains more energy per unit volume than gasoline or diesel.

2. Clean-Burning: CNG produces significantly fewer emissions, reducing air pollution and greenhouse gases.

3. Non-Flammable: CNG is safer than gasoline or diesel, as it requires a higher ignition temperature.

4. Cost-Effective: CNG is generally cheaper than traditional fuels.

Ironically, petrol-powered vehicles actually carry a higher risk of explosion than Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles. However, this reality is often obscured because petrol vehicles come factory-fitted, this system hide its danger. Whereas some CNG conversions are improperly done by unqualified technicians, increasing the risk of accidents and explosions. This create a false narrative about CNG safety.

The fuel tank location of a petrol power vehicle often sit underneath, whereby increasing vulnerability. This apparently can lead to fuel leakage, the petrol spills and get ignited easily.

CNG containers, on the other hand are air-tight seals, which prevent leaks and minimize risks. Their robust design can also withstands extreme conditions. There is also a routine regular Inspection to ensure optimal performance.

Benefits of CNG to Nigeria's Economy are:

1. Reduce Fuel Imports: Decreasing dependence on foreign fuel imports.

2. Boost Local Economy: Creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

3. Improve Air Quality: Reducing air pollution and related health issues.

4. Enhance Energy Security: Diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on oil.

To ensure safe and efficient CNG usage, it's crucial to consult experts and certified professionals for engine conversion. The use of designated approved kits and Installation of high-quality CNG conversion container is very paramount. Also the need to schedule regular checks and maintenance is lifesaving.

Presently, a common misconception surrounds CNG's safety, with many fearing high risks of explosion or fire accidents. This is misguided and can only happen when, quacks perform conversions without proper training and when substandard conversion kits and tools are used.

Recent incidents were attributed to quacks and cost-cutting measures, not CNG itself. Standard Organization of Nigeria gave an explaination for the recent explosion of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle during refuelling at a station in Benin City, Edo State.

Preliminary investigations by SON revealed that the explosion was caused by a substandard cylinder used in the vehicle's CNG conversion, which failed to meet the organization's approved standards, contrary to misleading reports circulating online.

Key players are investing heavily in Nigeria's CNG infrastructure:

1. Dangote Group: $280 million investment in CNG infrastructure.

2. Tetracore Energy Group: Modern CNG facility with 3.1 MMscf/d capacity.

3. Nigeria Government: Plans to expand CNG availability and infrastructure.

As Nigeria embraces CNG, users can expect increased availability, expanded infrastructure and distribution networks. The urgent need to improve technology advancements in CNG conversion and storage. Cost savings fuel expenses (CNG) and extended engine lifespan.

In the face of Nigeria's economic challenges and petrol price hikes, embracing CNG is no longer optional – it's imperative. Join the clean energy revolution and experience the benefits of a cleaner, more efficient fuel.

Convert to CNG today and:

1. Reduce fuel costs

2. Contribute to a cleaner environment

3. Support economic growth

Olusoji Akinsola.