By DAYO ADESULU
Largest Operator of CNG Trucks in Nigeria Set to Enhance Energy Efficiency
In a strong endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative, which aims to provide Nigerians with affordable and cleaner fuel options, Dangote Cement Plc has announced a substantial investment exceeding $280 million in CNG technology and infrastructure. This investment positions Dangote as the largest operator of CNG trucks in Nigeria.
Commitment to Clean Energy and Economic Growth
President Tinubu has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to CNG deployment and clean energy, emphasizing the need to harness Nigeria’s abundant natural gas resources within the transportation sector. He has initiated plans to distribute 1 million free CNG conversion kits for commercial vehicles that transport people, goods, and food, thereby promoting a significant shift in Nigeria’s public transportation approach.
At a recent event, President Tinubu stated, “Utilising natural gas to power Nigeria’s transportation industry is the next way to go,” highlighting the economic necessity of CNG transportation for the nation.
Dangote’s Strategic Investment in CNG Technology
Dangote Cement’s investment not only reinforces its leadership role in the CNG sector but also underscores its commitment to addressing climate change and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Arvind Pathak, the Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, revealed plans to convert 100% of the company’s truck fleet to CNG as part of a long-term strategy aimed at achieving this transition by mid-2026.
As of October, Dangote has received its first batch of 1,500 mono-fuel CNG trucks, with plans to acquire an additional 1,600 CNG trucks, totaling 3,100 before the end of the year. Pathak stated, “By mid-2026, Dangote Cement aims to operate a fleet predominantly powered by CNG,” and emphasized the importance of expanding CNG fueling infrastructure to support this growing fleet.
Infrastructure Development and Future Goals
Pathak highlighted that the investments in CNG infrastructure are crucial for Nigeria’s move towards cleaner fuels. The CNG station at Obajana, capable of refueling over 3,000 trucks, exemplifies this commitment, with a second station currently under construction in Ibese to bolster fleet operations.
Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive of Dangote Group, noted that these investments align with Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement, which targets net-zero emissions by 2060. He expressed optimism for the success of President Tinubu’s clean energy agenda, emphasizing the vital role of private sector support in realizing these goals.
Conclusion: A Cleaner and Greener Future
With its early adoption of CNG technology, Dangote Cement is leading the charge in enhancing Nigeria’s energy independence and contributing to a more secure energy future. The company’s commitment to utilizing CNG vehicles reflects the broader aim of fostering a cleaner and greener Nigeria, in line with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
As the nation moves forward with these initiatives, the collaboration between the government and private sector stakeholders like Dangote will be essential in achieving the shared vision of energy efficiency and sustainability.
