Benue to harness CNG for cheaper energy, economic growth

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has pledged his administration's commitment to harnessing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a means to alleviate escalating energy expenses for residents, enterprises, and the state's economy. The governor inaugurated a three-day awareness workshop titled "The Game Changer" at the Rev. Fr. Alia Ultra Modern Conference Hall in the state capital, Makurdi.

Governor Alia emphasized that CNG, as advocated by the Federal Government, provides Nigerians with an economical, environmentally friendly, and sustainable energy alternative. This shift could substantially bolster agricultural production, processing, storage, and transportation. He affirmed the administration's unwavering dedication to policies and programs that foster economic growth, job creation, enhanced living standards, and reduced citizen burdens. The CNG initiative, he added, could open new avenues for economic development in Benue.

Aligned with a wider national endeavor to supply affordable and cleaner energy, the governor highlighted the rising costs of transportation as a key motivator for the initiative's importance to the state. He further described the workshop as the initial phase of a structured program aimed at raising awareness, building capacity, attracting investments, and deploying CNG across Benue.

The Commissioner for Power, Renewable Energy and Transport, Joseph Jir, explained that the project transcends merely substituting petrol with gas. It represents an alternative energy source capable of delivering a cleaner and potentially more cost-effective option for residents. Ambassador Nicholas Agbo Ella, Chairman of the Benue State Steering Committee on Coalbed Methane and Allied Resources, underscored the project's potential to provide cheaper energy.

The workshop, he said, would enlighten residents about the advantages and safety measures associated with CNG.

Engineer Jonathan Ashir, the State Coordinator of the project and Technical Adviser to the Governor on National Gas and Renewable Energy, unveiled the initiative, stating it is aimed at mitigating the high costs linked to the usage of petrol and gas in business operations.