Dangote backs Tinubu’s CNG drive with fresh investment in trucks

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The President and Chief Executive of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has voiced support for President Bola Tinubu’s initiative to transition Nigeria’s energy focus from petroleum to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

Speaking at a recent event, the billionaire businessman noted that Dangote Group’s investments in CNG align with Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement, which targets achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.

“In this pursuit of transition to clean energy, we are optimistic of a remarkable accomplishment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he has taken the lead in the nation’s drive towards energy efficiency. This presupposes private sector intervention to support this noble idea initiated by the President,” Dangote said.

He noted that the company’s early adoption of CNG has made it the largest operator of CNG trucks in Nigeria, emphasising that the initiative is a boost to President Tinubu’s quest towards enhancing the nation’s energy independence and contributing to a more secure energy future.

“We are now using CNG vehicles, especially with the new policy of the Federal Government, launched under the Renewed Hope Agenda by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We are committed to a cleaner and greener future,” Dangote said.

Similarly, President Tinubu emphasised the urgent need for Nigeria to utilise its vast natural gas resources in the transportation sector. He stated that CNG transportation is an economic necessity for Nigeria, signalling a significant shift in the country’s approach to public transportation and energy use.

“Utilising natural gas to power Nigeria’s transportation industry is the next way to go,” he stated.

On its part, the Dangote Cement said its over $280m investment not only solidifies its leadership in the CNG sector but also reflects its dedication to mitigating climate change and supporting a transition to a low-carbon economy.

Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Arvind Pathak, said the investment is aimed at acquiring 100% CNG trucks as part of a long-term plan to transition its entire fleet to CNG.

Pathak stated, “By mid-2026, Dangote Cement aims to operate a fleet predominantly powered by CNG. To facilitate this transformation, we are investing in expanding our CNG fuelling infrastructure, ensuring that our growing fleet has reliable access to CNG as our fuel.”

Pathak highlighted that the company’s investments in CNG infrastructure have significantly advanced Nigeria’s shift to cleaner energy sources.

He noted that the CNG station at Obajana, which can refuel over 3,000 trucks, reflects this dedication, with a second station under construction in Ibese to further support fleet operations.