Lagos is taking a bold step towards a cleaner and more cost-effective future as the state government launches an intensive training programme for Vehicle Inspection and Safety Commission officers on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion.
This move, aligned with the Federal Government’s push to ditch petrol for CNG, signals a major shift in Nigeria’s transportation sector.
At the opening session of the three-day training at Dover Hotel, Ikeja, the Director-General of the Safety Commission, Mr Lanre Mojola, declared that the adoption of CNG is not just an energy alternative but a powerful statement of the administration’s commitment to safety, affordability, and environmental sustainability.
“This is beyond fuel—it’s about the future,” Mojola stated. “CNG is safer, cleaner, and significantly cheaper than petrol. This training ensures that our officials are well-equipped to oversee CNG-powered vehicles, guaranteeing road safety and public well-being.”
The training includes both technical and practical sessions, preparing officers to manage the growing fleet of CNG buses and e-bikes introduced by the state government as part of its drive towards a sustainable transport system.
Echoing Mojola’s sentiments, Mr Sesan Ogundeko, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, underscored the crucial role of safety in the success of the transition.
“Lagos is setting the pace, but safety must come first. We cannot afford to compromise,” he asserted. “Beyond slashing transportation costs, this initiative will drastically cut carbon emissions and improve air quality.”
Ogundeko called for the establishment of more CNG refuelling stations across the state to ensure easy access to the fuel alternative.
Representing the Chief State Vehicle Inspection Officer, Mr Akin-George Fashola, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. (Mrs) Abiola Koseegbe, Engr. Aileru Tajudeen reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforcing strict CNG regulations.
“The future is here, and Lagos is ready to lead,” Tajudeen declared. “Continuous training and stringent enforcement are key to ensuring a seamless transition to CNG-powered transportation.”
The officials also emphasised the importance of ongoing training for stakeholders and technical staff to ensure that CNG vehicles meet global safety standards.
Speaking on behalf of the Presidential CNG Initiative Expansion, Mrs Ogonna Onyemelukwe, Southwest 1 Coordinator, highlighted the Federal Government’s drive to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on petrol and capitalise on the country’s vast natural gas reserves.
“CNG is not just an option—it’s the future,” she stated. “It’s cheaper, environmentally friendly, and a major job creator. This initiative is about energy security, economic growth, and ensuring a cleaner, healthier Nigeria.”
