Gov. Yusuf launches northern region CNG/EV initiative

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, alongside the representative of the Vice President, Senator Hassan Hadejia, and the Executive Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (Pi-CNG & EV), Barr. Ismaeel Ahmad, has officially launched the programme’s activities across the Northern region.

Similarly, the delegation commissioned Asad CNG and Greenville LNG stations located along the Kano-Zaria Road.

Speaking at the launch of the Kano and Northern Region CNG/EV Activation, held at the Kano Indoor Stadium on Thursday, Governor Yusuf stated that the initiative would create vast opportunities in refueling infrastructure, conversion centers, technical services, assembly plants, logistics, and manufacturing.

In a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, Governor Yusuf emphasized that the project would generate jobs for the state’s teeming youths, many of whom have already been trained in vehicle conversion and technical maintenance.

The Governor assured investors that the state is ready to continue working with the Federal Government, the Pi-CNG and EV initiative, and genuine private investors willing to partner with the government in building the sector.

He added that: “Our administration will continue to provide the enabling environment necessary for businesses to thrive, as we believe economic growth and job creation must remain at the center of governance.”

Governor Yusuf also expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for this important initiative, noting that it would significantly ease the transportation challenges faced by citizens.

In his remarks, Senator Hassan Hadejia who is the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Vice President, noted that the activation of CNG in the North would maximise usage, considering the fact that the region possesses the largest fleet of transportation vehicles in West Africa.

He commended Governor Yusuf for his commitment and for providing an enabling environment even before the project’s official commencement.

On his part, Barr. Ismaeel Ahmad, the Chief Executive Officer of the Pi-CNG & EV disclosed that President Tinubu while acknowledging the hardship caused by the removal of the petroleum subsidy, wishes to be remembered for providing alternative energy sources that are significantly cheaper than Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

He further announced that CNG stations would be established across all senatorial districts in Kano to ensure widespread accessibility.

In their separate remarks, Alhaji Aminu Suraj who represented the Jigawa State Governor and Prof. Muhammad Al-Amin, representing the Katsina State Governor appealed for the swift implementation of CNG initiatives in their states to reduce transportation costs and stimulate rapid economic development.