AUF Demands Inclusive And Equitable Implementation Of CNG Program In Northern Nigeria

The Arewa Unity Forum (AUF), has called for an inclusive and equitable implementation of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), programme in northern Nigeria.

Ther Forum particularly appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to mandate a decentralized and inclusive rollout of the CNG program, ensuring fair access and participation for all regions, particularly Northern Nigeria.

These were contained in a statement by Nasiru Umar (Chakis) Dutsinma, National Chairman of AUF, stressing that the CNG program is presently heavily skewed in favour of a single entity which has received the lion’s share of government support, including funding and import approvals for infrastructure of CNG all equipment.

Umar stressed that the monopolistic structure has effectively excluded Northern Nigeria from access to essential CNG infrastructure, conversion centers, and affordable technology.

The AUF however commended the Federal Government of Nigeria for launching the CNG programme as a cleaner and more affordable alternative to petrol and diesel.

According to AUF; “This commendable initiative aligns with global efforts toward sustainable energy and economic transformation.

“However, we are deeply concerned about the current implementation approach, which appears to sideline Northern Nigeria from meaningful participation and benefits,” it said.

The AUF said that the situation poses several urgent challenges, adding that despite the North’s vast geography, large population, and critical role in agriculture and transportation, the region lacks the necessary CNG infrastructure, adding that the development undermines the inclusiveness and fairness of the programme.

The Forum also said that the overwhelming dominance of one company discourages competition, innovation, and broader participation—especially from local Northern businesses and entrepreneurs—resulting in a centralized, imbalanced system.

It also said that limited regulatory oversight and access to certified CNG technology increase the risk of unsafe, substandard kits and components entering the market, jeopardizing lives, property, and public trust in the program.

According to AUF; “Agencies like the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) must act swiftly to ensure quality assurance and regulatory enforcement across the country to prevent the proliferation of hazardous CNG products.

“We urge the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to initiate and support CNG infrastructure projects in the North, and to foster Northern-led involvement in the value chain.

“We call on the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), to intensify its regulatory oversight, guaranteeing that all CNG kits, cylinders, compressors, dispensers, conversion tools, mobile cascades, testing units, and refueling stations meet national and international safety standards.

“Access to this complete and comprehensive suite of CNG infrastructure equipment is critical to ensure safe, efficient, and region-wide adoption.

“We appeal to development agencies such as TETFund, BOI, and SMEDAN to provide funding, training, and technical support to Northern entrepreneurs aspiring to participate in the CNG ecosystem.

“For Nigeria’s energy transition to succeed, it must be inclusive, safe, and strategically balanced across all regions. Ensuring equitable implementation of the CNG program is not only a matter of justice—it is essential to national unity, sustainable development, and economic resilience.