In a monumental stride towards cleaner energy, Dangote Cement Plc has invested over $280 million in compressed natural gas (CNG) technology and infrastructure, throwing significant support behind President Bola Tinubu's CNG initiative. This initiative, aimed at providing Nigerians with more affordable and eco-friendly fuel options, aligns with the government’s broader objectives to tap into Nigeria’s abundant natural gas resources for the transportation sector.
President Tinubu has been an advocate for CNG as an essential component of Nigeria's energy transition. His government’s ambitious plan includes the distribution of one million free CNG conversion kits for commercial vehicles, which are vital for transporting people, food, and goods across the country. At a recent event, Tinubu emphasized that adopting CNG isn’t just environmentally responsible it’s an economic necessity for Nigeria. The President’s goal is to transform the nation's public transport and energy sectors, making them both sustainable and cost effective.
Dangote Cement has taken proactive steps to support this initiative, planning a comprehensive transition of its transportation fleet to CNG powered vehicles. Arvind Pathak, the Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, announced that this substantial investment reflects not only Dangote’s commitment to Nigeria's CNG future but also its dedication to a low carbon economy.
As of October, the company has already received 1,500 mono fuel CNG trucks, with an additional 1,600 expected to be deployed by year’s end. The long term target to operate a 100% CNG powered fleet by mid-2026, marking Dangote Cement as the largest operator of CNG trucks in Nigeria.
To facilitate this clean energy shift, Dangote Cement is also working on expanding its CNG fueling infrastructure. A refueling station in Obajana has already been established, capable of supporting over 3,000 trucks. Another station is currently under development in Ibese to further bolster the company’s fleet operations and ensure consistent access to CNG.
Pathak expressed confidence in the company’s ambitious timeline, stating that their goals for full compliance are on track, with aggressive deployment of CNG infrastructure set to begin in early 2025.
Aliko Dangote, President and CEO of the Dangote Group, highlighted that the CNG investment supports Nigeria’s commitment under the Paris Agreement to reduce emissions, aiming for net zero by 2060. He expressed optimism about President Tinubu’s leadership in driving the nation's energy efficiency and emphasized the critical role of the private sector in supporting these government led sustainability efforts.
We are committed to a cleaner and greener future,Dangote said. Our early adoption of CNG aligns perfectly with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and we are proud to be the largest CNG fleet operator in Nigeria.
Dangote Cement’s investment and commitment to CNG powered transportation represent a landmark moment for Nigeria's clean energy movement. As the private sector rallies to support President Tinubu’s CNG initiative, this collaboration marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and economically viable future for Nigeria. With Dangote Cement leading the way, Nigeria’s CNG future looks promising, paving the path for other companies to join in transforming the nation’s transportation and energy landscape.