By Rosheedat Akinkunle, JKNewsMedia Reporter
INITIATIVES TO transition from petrol to more affordable and eco-friendly energy sources are gaining momentum in Delta State.
The state government has announced it is partnering with NIPCO Gas Limited to establish a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle conversion centre.
The initiative aims to provide motorists with an alternative fuel option amid rising petrol costs and economic challenges.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Asaba, with key government officials in attendance, including Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, and Commissioner for Transport, Mr Onoriode Agofure.
Signing on behalf of NIPCO Gas Limited was the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Mr Sanjay Tarat.
Dr Emu emphasised that the facility’s establishment aligns with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s agenda for sustainable transportation. He warned that the state would revoke the MoU if NIPCO failed to meet expectations.
“Timeliness and quality are non-negotiable,” he said, stressing the government’s commitment to ensuring the project’s success.
Following the agreement, officials visited the designated 3,000-square-metre site on Summit Road, Asaba, for an official handover.
Transport Commissioner Agofure highlighted the economic benefits of CNG, noting its cost-effectiveness compared to petrol. He urged residents to embrace the alternative fuel to reduce transportation expenses.
Public Information Commissioner Charles Aniagwu explained that the government had conducted thorough feasibility studies before launching the project.
He assured residents that the conversion centre in Asaba is the first step, with plans to expand to Warri and other major cities across the state.
NIPCO Gas Limited’s Chief Operating Officer, Mr Sanjay Tarat, expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori and state officials for facilitating the process.
He pledged to complete the conversion centre within six months, assuring stakeholders that all regulatory requirements would be met.
He described the initiative as part of a broader plans to enhance Delta State’s energy infrastructure, reduce dependence on petrol, and make transportation more affordable for residents.
