Arewa Unity Forum Calls For Inclusive, Equitable Implementation Of The CNG Program in Northern Nigeria

 

"We are deeply concerned about the current implementation approach, which appears to sideline Northern Nigeria from meaningful participation and benefits." Arewa Aunty Forum

The Arewa Unity Forum has commended the Federal Government of Nigeria for launching the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) program as a cleaner and more affordable alternative to petrol and diesel. 

This the Group said is a commendable initiative which aligns with global efforts toward sustainable energy and economic transformation. 

In a press statement signed by Arewa Unity Forum, National Chairman, H.E. Nasiru Umar (Chakis) Dutsinma, the group stated that, "However, we are deeply concerned about the current implementation approach, which appears to sideline Northern Nigeria from meaningful participation and benefits."

According to the statement, "Presently, the CNG program is heavily skewed in favor of a single entity which has received the lion’s share of government support, including funding and import approvals for infrastructure of CNG all equipments .

"This monopolistic structure has effectively excluded Northern Nigeria from access to essential CNG infrastructure, conversion centers, and affordable technology."

This situation poses several urgent challenges:

Regional Consideration

Despite the North’s vast geography, large population, and critical role in agriculture and transportation, the region lacks the necessary CNG infrastructure. This undermines the inclusiveness and fairness of the program.

Monopolized Market Structure

The overwhelming dominance of one company discourages competition, innovation, and broader participation—especially from local Northern businesses and entrepreneurs—resulting in a centralized, imbalanced system.

Threat of Substandard Imports

Limited regulatory oversight and access to certified CNG technology increase the risk of unsafe, substandard kits and components entering the market, jeopardizing lives, property, and public trust in the program.

Regulatory Lapses

Agencies like the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) must act swiftly to ensure quality assurance and regulatory enforcement across the country to prevent the proliferation of hazardous CNG products.

Our Recommendations

*We respectfully call on His Excellency, Mr. President to mandate a decentralized and inclusive rollout of the CNG program, ensuring fair access and participation for all regions, particularly Northern Nigeria.

* We urge the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to initiate and support CNG infrastructure projects in the North, and to foster Northern-led involvement in the value chain.

* We call on the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) to intensify its regulatory oversight, guaranteeing that all CNG kits, cylinders, compressors, dispensers, conversion tools, mobile cascades, testing units, and refueling stations meet national and international safety standards. Access to this complete and comprehensive suite of CNG infrastructure equipment is critical to ensure safe, efficient, and region-wide adoption.

* We appeal to development agencies such as TETFund, BOI, and SMEDAN to provide funding, training, and technical support to Northern entrepreneurs aspiring to participate in the CNG ecosystem.

For Nigeria’s energy transition to succeed, it must be inclusive, safe, and strategically balanced across all regions. Ensuring equitable implementation of the CNG program is not only a matter of justice—it is essential to national unity, sustainable development, and economic resilience.The statement reads.