Lagos trains Vehicle Inspection, Safety Officers on CNG Conversion

The Lagos State Government, through the Safety Commission, has commenced a three-day training programme for Vehicle Inspection and Safety Commission officers to facilitate the transition from Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s directive to embrace cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

Speaking at the opening session at Dover Hotel, Ikeja, the Director-General of the Safety Commission, Mr Lanre Mojola, described the adoption of CNG as more than an energy solution, as it represented the administration’s commitment to safer, cleaner, and more cost-effective fuel alternatives.

He noted that the training included both practical and technical sessions to equip officials with the skills needed to oversee CNG-powered vehicles on Lagos roads.

“The state has already introduced CNG buses and e-bikes into its transportation system in line with the Presidential Initiative on Energy Transition,” Mojola stated.

“It is the duty of the Commission to train officials to ensure the safety of lives and public well-being,” he added.

In his remarks, Mr Sesan Ogundeko, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, emphasised that safety remained a top priority in transportation.

He commended the training programme, noting that aside from reducing transportation costs, CNG conversion would significantly cut carbon emissions and improve air quality.

He also called for the establishment of more CNG refuelling stations to support the initiative’s effective implementation.

Representing the Chief State Vehicle Inspection Officer, Mr Akin-George Fashola, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. (Mrs) Abiola Koseegbe, Engr. Aileru Tajudeen reiterated the state government’s commitment to enforcing regulations that ensure the safe use of CNG.

They stressed the importance of continuous training for stakeholders and technical personnel to enhance CNG quality and safety.

Mrs Ogonna Onyemelukwe, Southwest 1 Coordinator of the Presidential CNG Initiative Expansion, highlighted the Federal Government’s efforts to reduce reliance on costly petroleum products by promoting CNG.

She noted that the transition would not only lower fuel costs but also create jobs, enhance economic growth, and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment free of air pollution.