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Abuja Reports

CNG: Energy Independence Possible, Says PI-CNG

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By Samson Adeyanju

 

The Program Director and Chief Executive of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PI-CNG), Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, has declared Nigeria’s journey toward energy independence achievable through the adoption of compressed natural gas (CNG).

He emphasized that natural gas, abundant in 30 out of the country’s 36 states, is key to reducing dependence on expensive and polluting petrol while driving economic growth and energy security.

Speaking at the PI-CNG headquarters in Abuja during a visit by participants of the Abuja City Journal Essay Competition, Oluwagbemi highlighted the untapped potential of Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves.

“With 232 trillion cubic feet of proven natural gas reserves and an estimated 650 trillion cubic feet yet to be harnessed, Nigeria has the resources to power its industrialization for the next 300 years,” he stated.

He emphasized that natural gas, abundant in 30 out of the country’s 36 states, is key to reducing dependence on expensive and polluting petrol while driving economic growth and energy security.

Drawing parallels with the construction of Abuja, a seemingly impossible feat achieved decades ago, Oluwagbemi underscored the importance of leveraging Nigeria’s ingenuity and resilience.

“Just as Abuja rose from grasslands to become a thriving international city, we can harness CNG to transform our economy and achieve energy prosperity,” he said.

The PI-CNG initiative, established in 2023, aims to promote the use of CNG through incentives, vehicle conversions, and partnerships with private sector players.

Oluwagbemi highlighted ongoing efforts, including free CNG-powered bus services in Abuja and other states, vehicle conversion centers, and plans to incentivize the use of CNG in industries and households.

Stressing the benefits of CNG over petrol, he noted its safety, affordability, and environmental friendliness.

“Compressed natural gas is 18 times less explosive than petrol, cleaner, and more reliable. It’s time to stop wasting our God-given resources and transition to sustainable energy solutions,” he urged.

The PI-CNG initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to convert a million vehicles to CNG by 2027 and drive Nigeria toward becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2030.

Oluwagbemi called on the youth to embrace this energy revolution, stating, “Nigeria’s greatest resource is not beneath our feet but above our necks—our brains. Together, we can achieve energy independence and prosperity.”

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Abuja Reports

Abuja Light Rail Favors the Elite, Residents Lament

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By Emmanuel Ogbodo

Residents of the Federal Capital Territory argue that the Abuja Light Rail primarily serves the wealthy while neglecting ordinary commuters.

They urge the FCT Administration to learn from Lagos’ rail system.

Commissioned on May 29, 2024, with a six-month free ride, the rail currently runs only from the airport to the Central Business District, bypassing satellite towns where most workers reside.

Critics, including public affairs analyst Toyin Ajayi, question its design, stating it benefits only the affluent.

Civil servant Tajudeen Jimoh called for better planning, citing Lagos’ efficient rail and bus services.

The FCT Administration acknowledges the need for expansion but cites financial constraints.

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Abuja Reports

FCT Vigilantes Arrest Two Scavengers for Rape

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By Our Correspondent

Two scavengers, Mas’ud Bala and Ibrahim Musa, have been apprehended by vigilantes for allegedly gang-raping a 17-year-old girl in the Tipper Garage area of Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The incident occurred on Monday around 11:23 AM when the victim, who sells soya bean cake, went to collect a debt from the suspects.

One of the men reportedly lured her into their wooden apartment, where both assaulted her.

According to vigilante member Usman Kabiru, screams from the girl alerted neighbors, who intervened and immediately notified the vigilantes.

One suspect was arrested at the scene, while the second was captured the following day at Unguwar Abattoir.

The victim’s parents were informed and took her to the hospital, where medical staff confirmed the assault.

Local police have acknowledged the incident but have referred inquiries to their headquarters for further details.

As of the report’s filing, FCT police spokeswoman SP Josephine Adeh had not yet commented on the case.

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Abuja Reports

AIG Mohammed Gumel Takes Charge of Police Zone 7, Abuja

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By Jesusemen Oratokhai 

In a strategic leadership reshuffle, AIG Mohammed Usaini Gumel has officially assumed office as the new Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja.

Gumel, known for his expertise in peacekeeping, community policing, and crime rehabilitation, previously served as AIG in the Force’s Training and Development Department and as Commissioner of Police in Sokoto and Kano States.

With a strong track record in security operations, he played a pivotal role in stabilizing post-election tensions in The Gambia and significantly reducing crime rates in Kano and Sokoto through innovative policing strategies.

His appointment signals a renewed focus on security and law enforcement effectiveness in Zone 7, which covers the Federal Capital Territory, Kaduna, and Niger States.

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