CRSG Commissions CNG Conversion and Training Centre in Calabar
As Gov Otu reaffirms commitment to partner with FG on addressing transportation challenges
In a bid to promote more sustainable and affordable transportation system as well as support a sustainable energy future in the sfate, the Cross River State Government has officially commissioned a conversion and training center for vehicles to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).
The facility, located at the Construction and Fabrication Academy in Calabar, was launched on Thursday by the Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, who was represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey.
The main reason for introducing a training/Conversion location of CNG in Cross River State;
The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu has emphasized on the rising costs of petrol and diesel in the state and the entire country at large which have placed an enormous burden on residents, especially vehicle owners and commuters. He explained that the adoption of CNG in Cross River State as a fuel alternative offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. This move will not only reduce fuel costs but also help reduce carbon emissions, making Cross River State a cleaner and greener place to live.
The governor noted that the commissioning of this CNG in Cross River State, calabar is part of a broader strategy to address transportation challenges in the state, with plans to train entrepreneurs in renewable energy solutions in line with the administration’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of all citizens, regardless of economic status, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In his address, Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Justin Beshel, pointed out that the center is equipped with modern facilities, including 13 pits for efficient vehicle conversions and hydraulic lifts for safe and easy maintenance in line with global best practices.
On his part, the Commissioner for Transportation, Pst. Ekpenyong Cobham, added that converting vehicles to CNG in Cross River State will bring an appreciable value to the pay cheque of Cross River residents and positively impact the state’s economy as well as improving the living standards of its citizenry.
We are also in talks with financial institutions to establish a payment plan because the average cost for certified kits ranges from N600,000 to N650,000, which is a significant expense. Our discussions will focus on creating a 36-month payment option to facilitate a smooth conversion process. We have received 50 out of the 500 free CNG conversion kits from the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGi), with the remaining 450 expected shortly
Speaking earlier, Director and CEO of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi), Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi represented by Mr. Tosin Coker, Head of Communications, commended the Cross River State Government for supporting President Tinubu’s initiative aimed at creating employment opportunities, improve Nigerians’ socioeconomic status, and reduce carbon emissions.
The event, which was attended by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayanbem, other state officials and members of the PCNGi, concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the offer of free CNG conversion for 500 cars by government, and the formal unveiling of the CNG conversion and training center in Calabar.
