RismadarVoice Reporters, June 18, 2026
A senior United States transportation official has commended Nigeria’s push to expand Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure, describing it as a timely response to rising energy costs and global economic pressures.
California Secretary of Transportation, Toks Omishakin, made the remarks during a visit to Portland Gas Limited’s newly commissioned CNG facility in Lagos.
He said Nigeria’s investment in alternative energy solutions was both practical and necessary, particularly at a time of fluctuating fuel prices and geopolitical tensions affecting global energy markets.
Omishakin noted that CNG offers a cleaner and more affordable option for transportation, stressing that countries must diversify their energy sources to reduce dependence on conventional fuels.
“I think this is exactly what Nigeria needs at this time. With fuel costs at record highs, people need alternatives to power and energise their vehicles,” he said.
He added that natural gas is significantly cleaner than diesel, estimating that it produces about 70 to 80 per cent fewer emissions, while also dispelling concerns about safety in gas-powered transportation systems.
According to him, California adopted natural gas-powered transport about two decades ago before transitioning further into electric vehicles and hydrogen technologies, adding that Nigeria could benefit from similar knowledge-sharing partnerships.
He also pointed to California’s experience in developing electric vehicle charging infrastructure, expressing willingness for future collaboration with Nigeria in clean mobility solutions.
Omishakin urged Nigerian authorities to maintain momentum in energy reforms aimed at improving affordability and security, noting that diversification remains critical.
While acknowledging recent investments such as the Dangote Refinery, he said more efforts are needed to ensure energy remains accessible and affordable for citizens.
“My message is to continue finding ways to make fuel affordable and embrace different energy sources for homes and vehicles,” he said.
He commended President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for supporting initiatives aimed at improving energy access and transportation systems.
Earlier, Folajimi Mohammed, Chief Executive Officer of Portland Gas Limited, said Nigeria must fully harness its vast natural gas reserves to drive its energy transition.
He noted that the country possesses significantly more gas reserves than oil, but stressed that true value lies in utilisation rather than availability.
Mohammed explained that the newly launched facility currently serves about 400 vehicles daily, dispensing an average of 6,000 standard cubic metres of gas per day, and said growing patronage reflects rising confidence in CNG adoption.
He added that safety standards, awareness campaigns, and government support have contributed to increased public acceptance of gas-powered transportation.
According to him, the expansion of CNG infrastructure will play a key role in reducing transport costs, improving energy security, and supporting Nigeria’s broader shift toward cleaner energy alternatives.
