Abuja Goes Greener! Abbas Commissions 2nd Landmark NASENI-Portland CNG Facility

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has praised the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) for advancing affordable and cleaner energy solutions through the launch of the NASENI-Portland CNG Conversion, Training Centre, and Refill Station in Kubwa, Abuja, according to iReporter Online.

Represented by Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh during the commissioning ceremony, the Speaker highlighted the timely and impactful nature of the initiative. He remarked, “Energy transitions are never just about technology; they are about improving the quality of life for our people.

We must commend NASENI’s leadership for making life easier for Nigerians.”

According to iReporter Online, Hon. Abbas encouraged Nigerians to embrace the energy transition, noting that while change takes time, it is necessary for progress. He pointed to successful CNG adoption in countries like Argentina, Pakistan, and Iran, stressing Nigeria’s potential to become Africa’s leader in this space.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Olu Verheijen, said, “The NASENI–Portland partnership exemplifies how private sector engagement drives national economic growth.

The government’s role is to act as a catalyst, unlocking private sector expertise and capital to deliver real results for Nigerians.” She added that NASENI’s leadership under Mr. Halilu sets a benchmark for other agencies.

Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, explained that the new facility, comprising a CNG Conversion Centre, Training Centre, and CNG Gas Refill Station, supports the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a diversified and sustainable economy.

“We plan to replicate these facilities across all 36 states and the FCT to enable every vehicle in Nigeria to convert to CNG in the coming years,” he said.

According to iReporter Online, Halilu highlighted the benefits of the project—lower fuel costs, cleaner air, improved engine performance, enhanced energy security, and job creation for youth.

He noted that over the past year, NASENI has trained 30 Nigerian engineers from across the country in CNG technologies, forming a new generation of experts ready to expand this innovation nationwide.

The Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, praised NASENI’s efforts to make transportation energy more affordable and urged other agencies to support the initiative.

Several government representatives and industry stakeholders, including officials from the Federal Capital Territory, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), National Technology Incubation Centre, National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), and Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPR), congratulated NASENI and Portland on their partnership and pledged their support.

In his vote of thanks, Managing Director of Portland Gas Ltd, Hon. Olujimi Mohammed, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for its support and commended NASENI’s commitment, affirming that CNG adoption will help Nigerians reduce transportation and other expenses.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”