News Investigators/ The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) says it will soon release a comprehensive list of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles conversion centres, including the newly approved ones, nationwide.
Matilda Johnson, Brand & Corporate Communications Manager, PCNGI, said this in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.
Ms Johnson said that the move was to ease the stress encountered by motorists who choose to have alternative source of fueling for their vehicles.
She said that the release of the list of the newly approved CNG conversion centres was necessary to correct a misleading report that the PCNGI intentionally pulled down a website of conversion centres nationwide, to conceal information.
“The website is undergoing scheduled updates to reflect a larger, more inclusive list of newly approved conversion centers, in line with our transparency standards,” she said.
According to her, an article published in a section of the media, represents a regrettable deviation from the principles of ethical journalism, while the writer relied on conjecture and unfounded innuendos to attack a nationally impactful programme.
“Since its launch, the PCNGI has facilitated over $800 million in private and public investments, created more than 100,000 direct and indirect jobs, and significantly accelerated the adoption of cleaner and cheaper energy alternatives.
“Today, over 100,000 CNG vehicles are operational across Nigeria — a fivefold increase in just one year.
“The recent landmark deployment by Dangote Group, featuring 4,000 CNG-powered trucks, 100 virtual pipeline vehicles, and multiple daughter stations, is just one high-profile testament to the Initiative’s impact.
“Additionally, our partnership with local MSMEs has led to the rise of over 300 conversion centers, from just seven at inception, with an average of 20 new centers opening weekly.”
Johnson regretted that tangible outcomes of the programme were neglected while the conveyor of the misinformation engaged in speculative reporting.
“The publication also irresponsibly misrepresented the role and identity of one Mr David Idakwo, who works with PCNGI, portraying him as a senior decision-maker at PCNGI.This is patently false.
“Idakwo, a mid-level field officer employed in late 2024, holds no executive role within the organisation and is not involved in strategic decision-making.
“Efforts to link his past private enterprise affiliations to allegations of nepotism are not only misleading but an affront to the right of every Nigerian to legitimate business pursuits.
“At PCNGI, we remain unwavering in our commitment to transparency, public accountability, and national development.
“Our ongoing efforts to ensure proper distribution of government-subsidised kits and enforce compliance have inevitably unsettled those seeking to benefit from corruption or sabotage,” she added.
NAN
