Motorists in Calabar have called on the Federal Government to ensure that the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion and training centre in the city becomes operational so that they can benefit from the initiative.
The centre, located in Calabar, was inaugurated by the Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, on October 18, 2024, but has yet to commence operations.
The CNG conversion project is part of the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI), designed to promote affordable and sustainable energy solutions across the country following the removal of fuel subsidy.
However, an investigation revealed that since its inauguration, no activity related to vehicle conversion or training has taken place at the facility, which has remained locked and inactive.
A commercial transport operator, Mr. Sylvanus Ada, expressed disappointment that inquiries about vehicle conversion had not received any response from the authorities.
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“We were all interested in the project because of the cost-effectiveness of using CNG in our business.
“We were told during the inauguration that each vehicle conversion would cost about ₦500,000. Despite the high cost, many of us were willing to participate because of the economic and environmental benefits. But as we speak, nothing has been heard about it,” Ada told reporters.
Another commercial driver, Mr. Jonas Peter, who shuttles between Calabar, Ikom, and Ogoja, described the situation as unfortunate.
“Each time I drive past the centre, it’s always deserted. I was sceptical during the inauguration, and now it seems my fears were right,” he said.
Responding to concerns, the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Ekpenyong Cobham, assured that the project had not been abandoned despite delays in its activation.
“The state government is committed to reducing the cost of transportation. The management of the Presidential CNG Initiative is expected to visit the state soon,” Cobham stated.
“It is not possible for Cross River to abandon an initiative like the CNG project, which is highly beneficial to the state, especially in terms of cost-effectiveness and sustainability.”
