CNG Revolution: Abbas Launches New NASENI–Portland Centre In Abuja

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has praised the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) for championing affordable and cleaner energy initiatives through the newly established NASENI–Portland CNG Conversion, Training Centre, and Refill Station in Kubwa, Abuja.

According to Ireporter Online, Abbas, represented by Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh during the commissioning ceremony, described the project as timely and impactful, stressing that energy transitions are not solely about technology but also about improving the quality of life for citizens.

He urged Nigerians to embrace the gradual process of energy transition, noting that such change is essential for national development. Drawing examples from Argentina, Pakistan, and Iran—countries that have successfully converted millions of vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG)—the Speaker emphasised Nigeria’s potential to lead Africa in CNG adoption.

According to Ireporter Online, a goodwill message from the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, delivered by the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Olu Verheijen, highlighted the NASENI–Portland partnership as a prime example of the private sector’s critical role in driving national economic growth.

She stated that the government’s responsibility is to serve as a catalyst, unlocking private sector expertise and investment to achieve meaningful results for Nigerians.

She further noted that the pace set by NASENI under the leadership of Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu should serve as a benchmark for other agencies.

In his address, Halilu explained that the new facility—which houses a CNG conversion hub, training centre, and gas refill station—is part of NASENI’s commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a diversified and sustainable economy.

He announced ambitious plans to replicate such centres across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with the goal of enabling every vehicle in Nigeria to run on CNG in the coming years.

He outlined the benefits, which include lower fuel costs, cleaner air, better engine performance, improved energy security, and sustainable job creation for Nigerian youths.

“Last year, we commissioned our flagship CNG Conversion, Filling, and Training Centre in Utako, proving what is possible when innovation meets determination. Today, we are expanding that vision,” Halilu said.

With the capacity to convert up to 20 vehicles per day, the Kubwa station aims to make CNG more accessible, affordable, and convenient for Nigerians.

According to Ireporter Online, NASENI has already trained 30 engineers from all geopolitical zones in CNG conversion, auto maintenance, and clean energy technologies—creating a new generation of home-grown experts to spread the innovation nationwide.

The Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, commended NASENI’s initiative to reduce transportation energy costs and called for stronger inter-agency support.

Representatives from the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Nigerian Communications Commission, National Technology Incubation Centre, National Association of Road Transport Owners, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, and the Budget Office also pledged their support for the project.

In his closing remarks, the Managing Director of Portland Gas Ltd., Hon. Olujimi Mohammed, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its backing and lauded NASENI’s determination, stating that CNG adoption will significantly cut transportation costs and ease the financial burden on Nigerians.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”