Tinubu advises Nigerians to purchase CNG for N200 or gasoline for N1000 per liter.

As the cost of living in Nigeria continues to rise, the choice between paying N1000 for petrol or N200 for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is rapidly becoming a critical decision for Nigerians. This dilemma, spurred by President Bola Tinubu‘s initiatives to diversify fuel options, encapsulates the broader challenges the nation faces in managing the fallout from fuel subsidy removal. While CNG is presented as a cleaner, cheaper alternative, the journey to transition remains fraught with logistical and infrastructural hurdles.

Petrol prices in Nigeria have skyrocketed, with reports showing prices exceeding N900 per litre, which has left many citizens grappling with increased transportation costs and inflation. The removal of fuel subsidies, initially implemented to reduce government spending, has instead placed an enormous financial burden on average Nigerians. Now, with petrol prices nearing the N1000 mark, many are forced to reevaluate their transportation and energy consumption habits. This economic strain is the driving force behind the government’s push for alternative fuel sources, notably CNG.

CNG, priced at around N200 per litre, seems like an attractive alternative to petrol. The government, under Tinubu’s Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi), is promoting CNG as a solution to Nigeria’s energy crisis, with the promise of cheaper fuel and reduced carbon emissions. To facilitate this transition, Tinubu has announced plans to distribute one million free CNG conversion kits to commercial vehicles across the country, especially those used for transporting goods and passengers. This initiative, if fully realized, could dramatically cut fuel costs for Nigerians who depend on public transport for their livelihoods​

Despite the clear economic benefits, the transition to CNG is not without challenges. The availability of CNG refueling stations is still limited, primarily concentrated in urban areas. Many parts of the country lack the necessary infrastructure, which could impede the widespread adoption of CNG. Additionally, vehicle owners may need to wait up to 18 months for conversion kits, leaving them to bear the high petrol prices in the interim. The logistical hurdles, including the distribution and installation of these kits, will require significant government oversight and collaboration with private stakeholders to ensure that Nigerians can access this cheaper fuel option in a timely manner​

Beyond its affordability, CNG is also being championed for its environmental benefits. As a cleaner-burning fuel, CNG emits fewer greenhouse gases compared to petrol or diesel, making it a more sustainable option. The shift to CNG is part of a broader strategy by the Nigerian government to embrace renewable energy sources and reduce its carbon footprint. This aligns with global trends towards energy diversification, as countries look for ways to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. By reducing dependence on petrol, Nigeria stands to benefit from both an economic and ecological standpoint​

The future of Nigeria’s energy consumption will largely depend on the success of the CNG initiative. If the government is able to overcome the infrastructural challenges and ensure equitable access to CNG refueling stations across the country, Nigerians could see a significant reduction in their fuel costs. However, the transition will take time, and many citizens may struggle to cope with high petrol prices in the short term. For now, Nigerians face a tough decision: continue paying exorbitant prices for petrol or invest in the long-term benefits of CNG.

As Nigerians weigh their options, the choice between N1000 per litre for petrol and N200 per litre for CNG is more than just a question of fuel prices—it’s a reflection of the broader economic and environmental challenges the nation faces. With the right infrastructure, policies, and public support, CNG has the potential to transform Nigeria’s fuel landscape and provide much-needed relief to its citizens. However, the road ahead will require careful planning, collaboration, and a shared commitment to a sustainable energy future.