Five things to know before switching to CNG in Nigeria

As people are now seeking cheaper and alternative ways to cut costs on transportation due to high fuel prices, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is emerging as the centre of transition in Nigeria.

The transition, backed by government policies, serves as a crucial and more cost effective solution due to the price advantage compared to petrol and diesel, but adoption is hindered by limited refueling infrastructure, low awareness, and high conversion costs.

Before converting your vehicle to a full CNG or hybrid car, there are vital considerations to look for including the engine type and condition as well as the safety and regulations guiding them.

Read also: Five ways rising fuel prices are reshaping mobility in Nigeria

Here are five things to know before switching to CNG in Nigeria

Cost effective solution

Unlike petrol which costs more to fuel a vehicle, CNG serves as a cheap alternative. It is sold by volume at N380 per Standard Cubic Metre (SCM) while petrol is sold at above N1,300, indicating a 109 percent difference.

Nigeria is rich in natural gas and according to Powergas Global Investment Nigeria Limited, CNG enjoys more stable pricing compared to imported fuels, making it a financially sound choice in the long term.

High initial conversion costs

Despite being cheaper to purchase CNG, the upfront costs of converting a petrol or diesel vehicle is expensive, ranging from N800,000 to N1.5 million.

However, to encourage transporters to convert their vehicles, the government through the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative, declared in 2024 that it would shoulder 50 percent of this cost, which is between N600,000 and N750,000 per transporter.

Limited refueling infrastructure

In Nigeria, urban cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Benin, CNG stations are common but in rural communities they are limited making it inconvenient for long haul travel.

Access to refueling stations are highly limited and some existing stations have experienced supply shortages, causing frustration for drivers who rely on them.

Maintenance

CNG-converted vehicles require more frequent maintenance, using certified technicians and high-quality kits. Poor installation can lead to issues such as gas leaks or inefficient combustion.

Routine maintenance should be carried out on the cylinders in case of leaks, wear, or damage.

According to Haul247, CNG is a safe and reliable fuel, but it demands proper installation, maintenance, and handling to ensure your safety on the road.

Vehicle compatibility

Before converting, ensure your vehicle is compatible, as not all vehicles are suitable for CNG conversion. High-performance vehicles and older engines may require special attention.

Vehicles nearing the end of their service life or those already experiencing problems may not be able to handle the demands of a CNG system.