The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to establish Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion centers equitably across the country equitably, to ensure that all Nigerians benefit from the initiative and feel included.
The House also resolved to set up an Ad hoc committee to investigate the implementation of the Presidential CNG initiative.
The resolution was reached after the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Aliyu Madaki. The motion highlighted the advantages of CNG over the use of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and emphasized the need for equitable distribution of CNG conversion centers. Madaki pointed out that the current distribution of centers seems to favor some states over others, leaving out key regions.
According to the proposed plan, some states like Lagos have been allocated 70 centers, while others like Abia, Bayelsa, and Cross River have only one center each. Kaduna is the only state in the North West region benefiting from the initiative with 10 centers, while the North East region has been entirely left out. Madaki argued that this distribution is unfair, particularly considering that states like Kano, Borno, Katsina, and Sokoto are commercially viable and should not be exempted.
The lawmaker emphasized that commuters in states without CNG conversion centers would be disadvantaged, as they would not have access to the benefits of using CNG. He stressed the need for the Federal Government to reconsider the distribution and ensure that all regions benefit from the initiative.
In response to the motion, the House mandated its Committee on Gas Resources to ensure compliance with the directive to equitably establish CNG conversion centers. This committee will oversee the implementation of the initiative and ensure that the concerns of all regions are addressed.
The establishment of an Ad hoc committee to investigate the implementation of the Presidential CNG initiative is also aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability. This committee will probe the decision-making process behind the selection of states and the allocation of CNG conversion centers.
The House’s resolution reflects its commitment to promoting inclusivity and fairness in the implementation of national initiatives. By pushing for an equitable distribution of CNG conversion centers, the House aims to ensure that all Nigerians can benefit from the advantages of CNG and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
