The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI) has intensified its monitoring efforts to ensure transport operators adhere strictly to the approved affordable fare structures.
Mr. Michael Oluwagbemi, Programme Director and Chief Executive of P-CNGI, made this known while addressing concerns over reports that some transport operators disregard the agreed fare structures.
Oluwagbemi emphasized that no transport union should exploit its members to access the programme, warning that defaulters would face sanctions.
“We have noted with concern recent reports alleging non-compliance with the agreed fare structures. The P-CNGI remains committed to ensuring that transport operators pass on the benefits of CNG conversion incentives to commuters,” he stated.
He explained that the CNG conversion incentives were introduced to ease the burden of high fuel costs by allowing commercial drivers to transition from petrol and diesel to CNG at no cost.
“It is both disappointing and unacceptable that some transport stakeholders are undermining the initiative by imposing fares that contradict its purpose,” he added.
Oluwagbemi said the P-CNGI has set up a Conversion Incentive Programme with registered and authorized conversion centres under its supervision to facilitate a seamless transition. These centres ensure that commercial vehicles benefit from free conversions.
He further disclosed that P-CNGI, in collaboration with key stakeholders, has been engaging with transport unions to guarantee that all commercial drivers can access the free conversion scheme.
“In a bid to simplify the process, the initiative launched the ‘10 for 10 Initiative,’ where field agents visited transport parks in Abuja and Lagos to register vehicles for free conversions.
“This proactive approach ensures that more drivers can benefit without being compelled to go through their unions exclusively. Any operator found violating these terms will face sanctions,” he warned.
Oluwagbemi encouraged commercial drivers experiencing challenges in accessing the free conversions to report through designated channels or call the P-CNGI helpline at 07000000264.
Additionally, he revealed that measures are being introduced to enhance oversight and compliance, ensuring that the initiative’s benefits reach both drivers and the public.
He also reassured stakeholders that efforts were ongoing to expand refueling infrastructure and establish more conversion centres, ultimately increasing accessibility for commercial drivers and promoting CNG as a cost-effective and sustainable fuel alternative.