The cost of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) has risen sharply from ₦230 to ₦450 per standard cubic metre (SCM) following a government price review, sparking concerns among motorists and commercial drivers. While truck operators now pay the full ₦450/SCM, commercial drivers enjoy a partial subsidy at ₦380/SCM to keep transport fares from skyrocketing. However, the price hike has triggered long queues at filling stations, with many vehicle owners frustrated over limited access.
Officials from the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) confirmed the adjustment, explaining that while subsidies were intended across the board, commercial drivers continue to benefit from reduced pricing. They stressed that the government’s priority is expanding the network of CNG refilling stations nationwide. Currently, Nigeria has 60 operational stations, up from 20 in late 2023, with 175 more in development. Over 100,000 petrol-powered vehicles have been converted to CNG in one year, according to government data.
Despite these efforts, retailers warn that prices could rise further to ₦500–₦600/SCM, citing the government’s plan to attract more private investors. This, however, risks discouraging adoption as many Nigerians invested heavily in vehicle conversions, some spending over ₦1.5 million. With queues stretching up to 1.5km at some stations, drivers say the initiative is losing its appeal. “The government has been trying to convince people CNG is cheaper, but the difference with petrol is no longer significant,” lamented Adeyemi Paul, a ride-hailing driver in Lagos.