The Federal Government, under the guidance of the Minister of Transportation, Said Alkali, has initiated a significant shift from diesel to liquefied natural gas (LNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG). This transition is aimed at propelling the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) towards more sustainable energy sources while simultaneously reducing operational costs.
The initiative was unveiled in a statement by Olujimi Oyetomi, the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations. It reflects the current administration’s commitment, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to provide efficient, affordable, and sustainable transportation solutions in the context of the recent fuel subsidy removal.
The De-Sadel consortium’s proposal, presented on March 12, 2024, for the LNG-CNG alternative, has sparked a collaborative effort for joint deliberation between the Ministry of Transportation and the NRC. Minister Alkali has expressed optimism about the potential benefits of this transition, which could lead to more effective, efficient, and cost-effective rail services for Nigerians.
To ensure a swift and thorough evaluation process, Alkali has directed the formation of a seven-member technical committee to assess the feasibility of retrofitting NRC’s locomotives with LNG-CNG technology. The committee has been given a deadline of seven to 14 days to produce their recommendations.
Alkali has found merit in De-Sadel Company’s proposal to retrofit their existing LNG-CNG kits onto NRC’s locomotives at no cost to the government, a move that aligns with the administration’s goal of reducing transportation costs. He has instructed the Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Oloruntola, to form a joint team of engineers to oversee the gradual transition from diesel to gas usage.
Following the minister’s directive, the technical committee conducted evaluations and visited NRC’s workshop in Idu, Abuja, confirming the viability of the LNG-CNG technology retrofit.
Sam Uko, Managing Director of De-Sadel Consortium, highlighted the advantages of adopting LNG-CNG technology, including cost savings and an extended engine lifespan. The consortium has also committed to supplying gas for five years, addressing concerns about gas scarcity, and has proposed additional security measures to safeguard the rail corridors.
This forward-thinking approach to Nigeria’s railway sector not only promises a more sustainable and economical future for transportation but also sets a precedent for other sectors to follow in the pursuit of energy independence and environmental responsibility.