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<\/p>\nThe Cross River State Government has commissioned a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Conversion and Training Centre at the Construction and Fabrication Academy in Calabar. The initiative aims to provide vehicle owners with an affordable fuel alternative, reduce carbon emissions, and support job creation in line with federal government policies.<\/p>\n
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The centre was officially launched on Thursday by Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, representing Governor Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu. Speaking at the event, Governor Otu emphasized the state government\u2019s commitment to sustainable energy solutions amid rising fuel costs. He highlighted CNG as a cleaner, cost-effective alternative to petrol and diesel, alleviating the financial burden on residents and advancing environmental goals.<\/p>\n
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\u201cThe adoption of CNG technology will not only lower fuel costs for our people but also reduce carbon emissions, making Cross River a cleaner and greener state,\u201d Governor Otu said. He added that the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu\u2019s Renewed Hope Agenda and reflects the state\u2019s commitment to improving transportation systems for all residents, regardless of economic status.<\/p>\n
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Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Justin Beshel, outlined the modern facilities available at the centre, which include 13 pits for vehicle conversions and hydraulic lifts for safer, more efficient maintenance. He affirmed that the centre will operate in line with global standards and serve as a hub for training entrepreneurs in renewable energy technologies.<\/p>\n
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\u201cThis facility is part of our vision to equip citizens with practical skills in renewable energy, positioning Cross River as a leader in sustainable development,\u201d Dr. Beshel explained.<\/p>\n
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Commissioner for Transportation, Pst. Ekpenyong Cobham, underscored the economic benefits of the conversion program. He noted that CNG-powered vehicles would help residents reduce transportation costs and improve living standards, while positively impacting the state\u2019s economy.<\/p>\n
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\u201cBy converting vehicles to CNG, residents will see significant savings on fuel, increasing disposable income and supporting economic growth,\u201d Cobham remarked.<\/p>\n
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The launch also featured remarks from Mr. Tosin Coker, Head of Communications for the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi), who represented Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, the initiative\u2019s Director and CEO. Coker commended the Cross River State Government for aligning with President Tinubu\u2019s vision to create employment opportunities, improve citizens’ socioeconomic status, and mitigate environmental harm through CNG adoption.<\/p>\n
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\u201cThe collaboration between the federal government and Cross River State demonstrates a shared commitment to reducing emissions, creating jobs, and building a sustainable energy future,\u201d Coker said.<\/p>\n
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The event concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the announcement of free CNG conversions for 500 vehicles, marking the official launch of the CNG Conversion and Training Centre. The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayanbem, joined other government officials and representatives from the PCNGi in celebrating the milestone.<\/p>\n
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Governor Otu reaffirmed the state\u2019s readiness to collaborate with the federal government in addressing transportation challenges and improving citizens’ welfare. \u201cThis centre is a testament to our commitment to innovation and progress. Together with the federal government, we will create a transportation system that is affordable, sustainable, and inclusive,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\n
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The newly commissioned centre positions Cross River State as a leader in sustainable transportation in Nigeria, with long-term benefits for both the environment and the economy.<\/p>\n
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