In line with the federal government’s policy on the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) programme, the Nigerian Army (NA), commenced conversion of 30 operational vehicles to CNG.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja who was represented by the Chief of Logistics (Army) Major General Erema Akerejola emphasized the importance of the NA’s involvement in the initiative, citing the large fleet of operational vehicles and other requirements.
The COAS was speaking at the Nigerian Army Fleet auto switch kick-off programme on 19 March 2024.
A statement by the director army public relations Major General Onyema Nwachukwu said the service has in participating in the initiative, commenced conversion of approximately 30 vehicles from Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)/ petrol-powered engines to environmentally friendly Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in the pilot phase of the programme.
He stated that 30 operational vehicles using PMS would be converted during the pilot phase and 22 personnel would be trained on the process of conversion.
He stated further that the NA was willing to cooperate maximally and expressed appreciation to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the initiative.
Also, the Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa’id Ahmed Alkali, disclosed that the objective of the programme was to promote the adoption of CNG as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative fuel for mobility within the Nigerian Army fleet.
He expressed optimism that the outcome will enhance cost effectiveness and boost operational efficiency of the Nigerian Army.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the project coordinator, PCNGI, Engr Micheal Oluwagbemi described the NA as one of the finest institutions in Nigeria.
He added that the coming on board of the NA is a major milestone, considering its large fleet of operational vehicles.
He stated further that the NA’s effort has demonstrated a ‘forward-thinking approach showcasing the NA’s commitment to environmental responsibility and operational efficiency.”
