The House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative, setting up an ad hoc committee to assess the effectiveness of the policy’s implementation, particularly in light of legal and regulatory structures, and to suggest legislative reforms where needed.
The CNG initiative, introduced following the removal of fuel subsidies, is intended to serve both as a short-term cushion and a long-term energy transition strategy. It aims to offer a more affordable, environmentally friendly fuel option to Nigerians, especially for transportation.
The lawmakers raised concerns over the pace of implementation and the readiness of supporting infrastructure, questioning the management of funds, including how ₦100 billion naira from the ₦500 billion naira palliative fund was utilized, the legitimacy of a ₦760 billion naira private sector investment claim, and the current status of CNG infrastructure rollout nationwide.
The House of Representatives called on key government ministries and agencies, such as those in charge of gas, finance, transportation, environment, and oversight bodies like the National Bureau of Statistics to provide detailed updates. The Federal Road Safety Corps and other stakeholders have already expressed their support, outlining their roles in promoting the adoption of CNG in Nigeria’s transport system.