Commercial tricycle operators under the umbrella of the Kogi Central Tricycle Network have raised alarm over the growing difficulties they face in accessing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), urging the government and relevant stakeholders to intervene urgently.
The operators lamented that the only existing CNG filling station serving Kogi Central is inadequate to meet the increasing demand from commercial tricycle riders who have embraced the Federal Government’s clean energy initiative.
According to the operators, the shortage has resulted in long queues, operational delays, loss of productive hours, and economic hardship for both transporters and commuters across the district.
“One CNG gas station is insufficient for us. We urge the government and our leaders to look into it, as the entire Kogi Central is feeling the impact now,” a representative of the group stated.
The appeal has drawn the attention of the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan, who assured residents that steps are already being taken to address the challenge.
Responding to the concerns, Senator Natasha disclosed that she had engaged the leadership of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) on the matter.
“Thanks for sharing the video,” the senator said.
“My dear friend, Ismaeel Ahmed, who chairs the Presidential CNG Initiative, has assured me that his office is currently facilitating the establishment of a number of CNG stations across Kogi State. This will help bridge the supply gap and address the current scarcity.”
She expressed optimism that the planned expansion of CNG infrastructure would significantly ease the burden currently experienced by transport operators and consumers throughout the state.
Confirming the development, the Chairman of the Presidential CNG Initiative, Ismaeel Ahmed, revealed that arrangements were already underway to establish additional CNG stations across Kogi State through partnerships with private investors.
“Thank you, Distinguished Senator. We are working with private investors to establish more CNG stations in Kogi State,” Ahmed said.
He noted that Kogi State occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s gas value chain, making it a priority destination for investment in CNG infrastructure.
“Kogi State is home to the Ajaokuta gas hub, and because of its strategic location, heavy traffic volume, and importance as a major transportation corridor, we will be bringing more gas stations along that route,” he added.
The assurance has been welcomed by tricycle operators and residents, who expressed hope that the proposed facilities would be delivered promptly to reduce waiting times, improve transportation efficiency, and provide easier access to affordable fuel alternatives.
The expansion of CNG infrastructure in Kogi State will not only support commercial transport operators and commuters but also strengthen the Federal Government’s commitment to cleaner, more sustainable, and cost-effective energy solutions for Nigerians.
