Despite vehicle gas conversion as post-subsidy removal relief package, cost of movement remains high in Nigeria
By SHERIFDEEN ABBAS
Gas conversion may reduce fuel expenses, but Nigerians need more than cheaper fuel. They need affordable, safe and reliable transportation.
The growing conversion of petrol-powered vehicles to run on gas in Nigeria was introduced as one of the measures to cushion the effects of petrol subsidy removal. However, despite the government’s promotion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cheaper alternative fuel, the cost of movement across the country remains high, leaving many Nigerians struggling with transportation expenses.
Although gas conversion may offer some savings on fuel, the financial relief it promises has not eliminated the wider challenges confronting motorists, transport operators and commuters. Beyond the cost of fuel, other factors, including vehicle maintenance, transportation fares alongside the activities of Agbero empowered by politicians in government, poor road conditions and the availability of refuelling facilities, continue to make movement expensive.
The situation raises questions about whether the gas conversion initiative, as a post-subsidy removal relief package, is delivering the expected benefits to ordinary Nigerians.
One major concern associated with vehicle gas conversion is safety. Gas is stored under high pressure, and defects in cylinders, connecting pipes, valves or installation can create dangerous situations. Poor workmanship, substandard components and failure to conduct regular inspections may expose drivers, passengers and other road users to avoidable risks.
Another concern is the condition of Nigerian roads. Many roads are riddled with potholes and damaged sections, making vehicle maintenance a major challenge. Where gas cylinders and their mounting systems are improperly installed or inadequately protected, repeated impacts, corrosion and loose fittings could compromise safety. Proper installation, secure mounting and routine inspections are therefore essential.
Maintenance is another factor that motorists must consider. Gas-converted vehicles require specialised knowledge, equipment and trained technicians. Where qualified personnel are unavailable, or motorists rely on untrained mechanics, faults may go undetected or be improperly repaired, potentially resulting in expensive breakdowns and safety incidents.
There are also practical disadvantages. Depending on the vehicle and conversion system, gas cylinders may occupy valuable boot space and add weight. Poorly designed installations could affect vehicle handling, suspension and tyre wear.
Furthermore, the availability of CNG refuelling stations remains an important consideration for motorists travelling between cities and communities. Long queues, limited access to facilities and possible interruptions in supply can undermine the expected savings, particularly for commercial drivers who depend on their vehicles for daily income.
Engine performance and durability are additional concerns where conversion is unsuitable or improperly executed. Incorrect calibration and poor maintenance may cause reduced performance, overheating or premature wear of engine components. This makes professional assessment essential before converting any petrol-powered vehicle.
More importantly, the savings on fuel have not automatically translated into cheaper transportation for Nigerians. Commercial transport operators must contend with vehicle repairs, spare parts, tyres, road conditions and other operating expenses. These costs can influence fares even when a vehicle runs on a cheaper alternative fuel.
The Federal Government and relevant regulatory agencies must therefore look beyond promoting gas conversion as a response to the removal of petrol subsidies. They should ensure that conversion centres meet safety standards, technicians are adequately trained, cylinders are certified and inspected, and CNG infrastructure is expanded to make refuelling more accessible.
The government must also address the wider factors driving transportation costs, including activities of Agbero who determine how much transport operators must charge because of their own selfish gains unconstitutionally permitted by politicians in government, poor roads, high vehicle maintenance expenses and the cost of spare parts. Without these complementary measures, the benefits of gas conversion may remain limited for many Nigerians.
Ultimately, the objective of a post-subsidy relief package should be to reduce the financial burden on citizens, not merely to introduce an alternative fuel. If Nigerians are encouraged to convert their vehicles to gas but continue to face high transport fares and rising vehicle operating costs, the central promise of affordable movement remains largely unfulfilled.
Gas conversion may reduce fuel expenses, but Nigerians need more than cheaper fuel. They need affordable, safe and reliable transportation.
