The Enugu State Government has initiated the transition from Premium Motor Spirit to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to lower transportation costs for commuters.
Dr. Obi Ozor, the Commissioner for Transport, made this announcement while briefing journalists on the outcomes of the State Executive Council meeting in Enugu on Friday.
He stated that the Executive Council recognized the need for the state and its citizens to shift from petrol to CNG. He noted that CNG could cut fuel and transportation costs by nearly half, benefiting operators in the transport sector and reducing overall expenses for commuters.
Ozor revealed that the government plans to invest in purchasing new buses and to support private sector investment in the transportation sector within the state. “These initiatives aim to establish a safe, affordable, and sustainable transportation system in Enugu. By embracing CNG, the state is creating a favorable environment to attract investors and has partnered with Greenville Energy,” he added.
He urged vehicle owners interested in converting their cars from petrol to CNG to register at the Ministry of Transport and emphasized that they would collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Transport to obtain the necessary CNG kits.
Additionally, the government approved a transition plan from Premium Motor Spirit to Compressed Natural Gas for transportation across the state.
In another announcement, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the State Government, revealed the creation of a new Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to oversee investments in these sectors.
Onyia noted that Governor Peter Mbah had previously signed the Enugu State Electricity Law, which mandates the establishment of an independent regulatory body. This new ministry will supervise all activities in the energy and mineral resources sectors, reflecting the abundance of minerals in Enugu State.
He remarked, “The government decided at today’s Executive Council meeting to create the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, with a mandate to oversee investment opportunities within our solid mineral resources. This initiative will also stimulate investments in renewable energy and coal-to-power projects. The new ministry will take effect immediately, and we will begin the process of setting up its office.”
He added that a budget allocation has been prepared for the establishment of the regulator and that structural initiatives are currently in progress.
Onyia stated, “The next step will involve appointments directed by His Excellency. For now, we are focused on creating opportunities by establishing offices and recruiting the qualified personnel needed. Given the technical nature of this ministry, we will ensure everything is in place, while the Commissioner for Transport oversees the process.”
Regarding the distinction between the Ministry of Energy, Mining, and Environment, he clarified that they serve different functions that complement each other.
“One ministry enhances the effectiveness of the other. The Ministry of Energy will address various energy sources, including power generation from gas and coal. Each of these aspects has environmental implications,” Onyia explained.
He emphasized that the government’s actions are aimed at reducing carbon emissions, asserting that the two ministries will support one another rather than overlap in responsibilities.
