Why Nigerians should embrace CNG and electric cars over gasoline vehicles

Fellow Nigerians, it is no longer news that the cost of petrol has skyrocketed following the removal of fuel subsidies. Daily, we struggle with high transportation costs, increasing vehicle maintenance expenses, and environmental challenges caused by pollution from gasoline-powered cars. But what
if there was a better alternative—one that saves you money, reduces pollution, and leverages Nigeria’s natural resources?
That alternative is Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EVs).

While many countries are transitioning away from petrol and diesel, Nigeria still heavily depends on gasolinepowered cars. It is time we embrace cleaner and more cost-effective solutions. Here’s why:

1. CNG and EVs Will Reduce the Cost of Transportation
• With petrol prices hitting record highs, running a vehicle has become a major financial
burden for many Nigerians.
• CNG is significantly cheaper than petrol, costing almost 50% less per liter equivalent and
offering long-term savings.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs) eliminate fuel costs completely and rely on electricity, which can be
generated from solar or other renewable sources.
• Imagine paying half the amount you currently spend on petrol—this is the financial relief
that CNG and EVs offer.

2. Nigeria Has Abundant Natural Gas to Power CNG Vehicles
• Nigeria is blessed with over 206 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, making it the 9th largest
natural gas reserve in the world.
• Yet, we flare gas daily, wasting resources that could be used to power vehicles.
• Converting cars to CNG would reduce fuel imports, save foreign exchange, and create
local job opportunities in gas processing and distribution.
Why should we keep spending billions importing petrol when we have a cheaper, locally available
alternative?

3. CNG and Electric Vehicles are Better for Our Health and
Environment
• Our cities are becoming choked with air pollution from petrol and diesel vehicle emissions.
• CNG produces up to 30% fewer carbon emissions than petrol, improving air quality and
reducing health risks like respiratory diseases.
• EVs produce zero emissions, making them the cleanest option.
• A cleaner environment means fewer health problems, less smog in cities, and a safer climate for future generations.
If we want our children to grow up in healthier surroundings, we must reduce petrol dependency
and embrace cleaner alternatives.

4. CNG and EVs Have Lower Maintenance Costs
• CNG engines experience less wear and tear, reducing maintenance expenses.
• EVs have fewer moving parts, eliminating frequent oil changes and engine repairs.
• Mechanics will adapt to new technologies, creating fresh job opportunities in automotive
engineering and EV maintenance.
Instead of spending heavily on car repairs due to the effects of bad fuel, we should invest in
vehicles that last longer and cost less to maintain.

5. The World is Moving Away from Petrol – Nigeria Must
Catch Up
• Countries like the UK, US, and China are phasing out petrol cars by 2035.
• Many African nations, including Kenya and South Africa, are already investing in electric
mobility.
• The Nigerian government has launched CNG adoption programs, but mass support from citizens is needed to accelerate change.

If we do not act now, Nigeria risks being left behind in the future of transportation. We must
embrace innovation and lead the transition in Africa.

Conclusion: The Time for Change is Now
Nigerians, the high cost of petrol is affecting everyone—from car owners to business owners,
students to professionals. We can no longer ignore better and more sustainable alternatives.
CNG and electric vehicles are the future, and the benefits are clear:
✅ Lower fuel and transportation costs
✅ Reduced pollution and better air quality
✅ Less vehicle maintenance and repair expenses
✅ Stronger national economy through local energy use
The question is—are we ready to move forward? It is time for individuals, businesses, and the
government to work together in making Nigeria a leader in clean and affordable transportation.
Let’s invest in the future, save costs, and build a healthier Nigeria!

Engr. Samuel D. Akhibi
Founder/CEO Sure Mech Nig. Ltd