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The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s transition from expensive, polluting fuels to abundant and cleaner natural gas is now a cornerstone of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s long-term vision for a sustainable, modern transport system.
She made the declaration at the 2nd Annual Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Conference and World Sustainable Transport Day celebration held at the National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja.
Mahmoud explained that the embrace of CNG is more than a technological shift — it is a national survival strategy, a pathway toward economic stability, energy security, and environmental responsibility.
She highlighted that under the leadership of FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Administration is already blazing the trail, redesigning Abuja’s transport architecture to prioritize efficiency, sustainability, and commuter comfort.
“The FCT Administration is committed to expanding refuelling infrastructure and enacting policies that encourage alternative fuels while discouraging high-emission transport practices,” Mahmoud said.
She called on the private sector, financiers, technical experts, and transport operators to align with the Federal Government’s vision, warning that Nigeria’s future hinges on swift, united action.
Represented by her Special Assistant on Technical Matters, Tpl. Michael Bawa, Mahmoud expressed confidence that resolutions from the conference would strengthen the country’s quest for a cleaner, safer environment with the FCT positioned as a national model for green mobility.
In her welcome remarks, the MD/CEO of Automotive Gas Nigeria Services Limited (Autogas Nigeria), Hajiya Maryam Salihu Ibrahim, described the moment as a defining point in Nigeria’s energy transition journey.
She noted that the creation of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) was not just a response to global climate concerns, but a strategic economic reform targeted at reducing fuel costs, boosting energy security, and driving inclusive national growth.
Ibrahim commended President Tinubu for championing the CNG revolution, describing it as a key pillar of the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
