Stakeholders in Nigeria’s automotive sector have lauded the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) for organizing a workshop focused on the Federal Government’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative. The programme, designed as a capacity-building event, is aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of CNG, LPG, and EV alternatives as sustainable options to fossil fuels in Nigeria.
Industry leaders expressed their support, with Mr. Derek Ewelukwa, Managing Director of Jet Systems Limited, noting that the training comes at a crucial time. “By hosting this workshop, NAJA is enabling the public and stakeholders to better comprehend the government’s CNG efforts,” he said. Ewelukwa emphasized the media’s role in educating the public on the benefits and safety of CNG, promoting cleaner energy sources in Nigeria.
The one-day event, scheduled for October 31, 2024, at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will cover topics under the theme “CNG/LPG/EV Initiative: Challenges, Sustainability, Opportunities, and Alternatives to Fossil Fuels in Nigeria.” Ewelukwa encouraged similar industry associations to follow NAJA’s lead in supporting governmental initiatives, stressing that public understanding is crucial for the success of such projects.
Mr. Syam Abdul-Kadir, Operations Manager of Mikano Motors, echoed this sentiment, stating that the workshop will outline essential actions for the government, industry players, and the public to make the CNG initiative a reality. He commended NAJA for supporting the initiative, adding, “Educating the public on CNG’s safety and benefits, especially to ease business processes, will help dispel fears and encourage acceptance.”
Abdul-Kadir emphasized that all stakeholders must ensure adherence to international standards for CNG use, from certified tanks to proper dispensing equipment, to guarantee safe implementation.
Adrian Egonu, Chairman of NAJA’s 2024 Annual Training/Capacity Building Workshop Committee, highlighted that past NAJA training sessions have enriched journalists’ understanding of the automotive industry. Egonu explained that this year’s theme was chosen to align with recent government actions aimed at promoting CNG, LPG, and EVs, which follow international standards for environmentally friendly fuels.
NAJA Chairman, Mike Ochonma extended his gratitude to sponsors and partners, acknowledging their support in advancing NAJA’s role as a critical source of information for the public. He emphasized NAJA’s ongoing commitment to unbiased information dissemination and public education. The event will also feature participation from notable organizations, including the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mikano Motors Nigeria Limited, CFAO Mobility, Jet Systems Automobiles, and others.
