CNG conversion: P-CNGI to monitor transport unions adherence to cheap fares

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI) says it is intensifying its monitoring efforts to ensure strict adherence to the approved affordable fare structures by transport operators. Mr Michael Oluwagbemi, Programme Director/Chief Executive, P-CNGI, made this known on Monday while reacting to reports alleging non-compliance with agreed fare structures by some transport operators. Oluwagbemi said […]

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI) says it is intensifying its monitoring efforts to ensure strict adherence to the approved affordable fare structures by transport operators.

Mr Michael Oluwagbemi, Programme Director/Chief Executive, P-CNGI, made this known on Monday while reacting to reports alleging non-compliance with agreed fare structures by some transport operators.

Oluwagbemi said that the initiative would ensure that no transport union extorted members to access the programme.

“We will sanction any defaulting operator.

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“The P-CNGI notes with consternation, recent media reports alleging non-compliance with agreed fare structures by some transport operators.

“P-CNGI wishes to clarify its position and the ongoing efforts being made to ensure affordability of conversions for commercial drivers while monitoring their compliance to pass on savings to consumers.”

Oluwagbemi said the introduction of CNG conversion incentives under the P-CNGI was designed to alleviate the burden of high fuel costs by enabling commercial drivers to transition from petrol and diesel to CNG at no cost.

“It is therefore disappointing and unacceptable that certain stakeholders within the transport sector are acting against the initiative’s goals by imposing fare structures that contradict its purpose,” he said.

To support a smooth and affordable transition, Oluwagbemi said the P-CNGI established a Conversion Incentive Programme, which registered authorised conversion centers under its supervision.

According to him, these centers work closely with P-CNGI to ensure that commercial vehicles benefit from the free conversion scheme for commercial vehicle operators.

“The P-CNGI in collaboration with key stakeholders, has been engaging actively with transport unions to ensure that all commercial drivers can access these free conversions.

“In recent times and to further streamline the process, the initiative inaugurated the ’10 for 10 Initiative’ where field agents visited commercial transport parks in Abuja and Lagos to sign up vehicles for free conversions.

“This proactive approach ensures that more drivers can benefit from the programme without facing unnecessary barriers when exclusively required to go through their unions.

“Any operator or stakeholder found violating these terms will face appropriate sanctions.

“We encourage commercial drivers to report challenges in accessing the free conversions via designated channels or by calling the P-CNGI helpline at 07000000264.

“New measures are also being introduced to strengthen oversight, ensure compliance and to ensure that the intended benefits reach drivers and the general public,” he said.

Oluwagbemi also said that his office was also working diligently with partners to expand refueling infrastructure and establish more conversion centers.

This, he said would increase accessibility for commercial drivers and improve gas supply availability to further promote the adoption of CNG as a sustainable and affordable fuel alternative. (NAN)