Following the Federal government’s directive on the need to move away from PMS to CNG, the Lagos State Government, through the Safety Commission, has organised a three-day training for Vehicle Inspection/Safety Commission Officers.
Speaking at the opening of the training programme, Director-General, Lagos Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, stated that the adoption of CNG as an alternative fuel is not just an energy solution, but a declaration of the present administration’s resolve to embrace cleaner, safer and more affordable energy systems that prioritize the well-being of its citizens and the preservation of the environment
According to him, the training would involve both practical and technical sessions, adding “This is a follow-up to the state’s adoption of CNG buses and E-bike into its transportation system which is in tandem with the Presidential Initiative on energy transition to cleaner and alternative fuel and at such, it is the function of the Commission to train officials that will oversee these vehicles on the road, to ensure safety of lives and public well-being”.
In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Sesan Ogundeko, maintained that for any issue that has to do with transportation to be successful, safety is key and should not be compromised, hence, the reason why he is very much satisfied with the training being organized by the Commission.
He added that aside from the advantages inherent in the conversion of vehicles to CNG-powered vehicles which will lower the cost of transportation, it will also reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality
Ogundeko, however, advised on the need for the availability of more compressed gas stations and further ensured that the CNG is safe, effective, efficient, and convenient and should be implemented in Lagos as a whole.
In their remarks, Mr. Akin-George Fashola, Chief State Vehicle Inspection Officer and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. (Mrs) Abiola Koseegbe, both represented by Mr. Gbenga Vaughan and Engr. Aileru Tajudeen, respectively, said the present administration in the state is committed to supporting the laudable initiative.
They noted that adequate enforcement and regulations must, however, be adhered to for a safer environment, affirming their Agency’s commitment to enhancing CNG quality.
The duo also stressed the need for ongoing stakeholder and technical staff training on CNG safety and usage with various vehicles while commending Lagos State’s leadership on the initiative.
In her submission, the Presidential CNG Initiative Expansion Coordinator, South West I, Mrs. Ogonna Onyemelukwe, maintained that the Nigerian Government has been promoting the use of CNG as part of its efforts to reduce dependence on expensive petroleum products and harness the country’s vast natural gas reserves.
She explained that the CNG Conversion is cheaper, fosters job creation, enhances economic growth, and energy security, a hallmark of a cleaner, healthier and safer environment devoid of air pollution.
