In a significant move toward promoting sustainable energy in Nigeria’s automotive sector, the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) has received commendation from key stakeholders for organizing a comprehensive workshop on the Federal Government’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative.
Set for October 31, 2024, at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) building in Ikeja, the one-day training aims to deepen understanding of the CNG/LPG/EV framework, under the theme, “CNG/LPG/EV Initiative: Challenges, Sustainability, Opportunities, Alternative to Fossil Fuels in Nigeria.”
This initiative has attracted positive feedback from industry leaders, who view NAJA’s efforts as an essential step in raising awareness about cleaner fuel options.
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Derek Ewelukwa, Managing Director of Jet Systems Limited, emphasized the critical role auto journalists play in informing the public and stakeholders about new technologies like CNG.
“With NAJA’s initiative, more Nigerians will understand the advantages of transitioning to CNG—lower fuel costs, reduced emissions, and enhanced sustainability,” Ewelukwa remarked.
He also highlighted the workshop’s focus on addressing public concerns around the safety of CNG, reassuring that modern CNG systems adhere to stringent safety standards, making them as reliable as conventional fuels.
Syam Abdul-Kadir, Operations Manager at Mikano Motors, echoed Ewelukwa’s sentiments, noting that a collective effort from the government, private sector, and public will be key to the success of Nigeria’s shift to CNG. “Everyone is a stakeholder in this transition,” Abdul-Kadir said. “We want to dispel myths, prevent fears about unknown technology, and promote CNG as a safer, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative.”
The workshop’s agenda will include sessions led by experts on practical aspects of CNG technology, addressing public skepticism around the potential risks, and explaining the regulatory and safety standards involved.
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Abdul-Kadir further stressed that proper certification and adherence to global CNG standards are critical. He emphasized, “From certified tanks to compliant dispensing stations, we need to ensure that Nigeria’s CNG infrastructure is built to the highest standards, benefiting users nationwide.”
The workshop will also feature participation from industry regulators, including the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and sponsors like CFAO Mobility, Fixit45 Limited, and Pi-CNG.
According to Adrian Egonu, Chairman of the 2024 NAJA Training/Capacity Building Workshop Committee, this year’s event aligns with Nigeria’s broader goal of reducing its carbon footprint and embracing cleaner automotive technologies.
“Through this training, we are equipping journalists to disseminate accurate information about CNG, LPG, and EVs, furthering national goals of sustainability,” Egonu stated.
He added that the workshop presents a platform for industry players to showcase their innovations, contributing to NAJA’s mission to uplift the auto sector in Nigeria and beyond.
NAJA Chairman Mike Ochonma expressed gratitude to the sponsors and assured that the association would continue to fulfill its role in educating the public on key industry developments.
“As the fourth estate of the realm, NAJA remains committed to shaping informed public opinion on advancements in our auto industry,” Ochonma affirmed.
With top automotive stakeholders, industry sponsors, and journalists in attendance, the workshop is poised to bridge the knowledge gap and encourage public adoption of cleaner energy solutions across Nigeria’s transportation sector.