Nagendra Verma, the Managing Director of NIPCO Gas Limited, stated that building infrastructure is essential for developing the energy sector in Nigeria.
He made this statement on Sunday after NIPCO was awarded the title of Innovative Gas Company of the Year by Energy Times Newspaper.
Verma revealed that since 2009, NIPCO Gas has been leading the way in AutoCNG development, with locations in Benin City, Ibafo in Ogun State, and Kogi State.
The company was commended for its efforts in the gas sector, particularly the launch of its first Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) station in Benin City, Edo State, in 2009.
NIPCO Gas currently operates 15 AutoCNG stations nationwide and ensures that CNG vehicles from Lagos can travel as far as Abuja and Kaduna, thanks to strategically located refuelling points along the route.
NIPCO Gas is working with NNPC Limited to establish a network of CNG stations throughout the country, with plans to construct 35 CNG Stations initially across states of Nigeria.
Currently, NIPCO Gas Limited has 16 CNG outlets and has successfully converted over 8,000 vehicles to CNG, supporting the government's efforts to make fuel more economical and benefit the national economy.
The partnership between NIPCO Gas and NNPC, under the guidance of the Presidency, shows a shared commitment to serving the Nigerian populace.
The award acknowledges NIPCO Gas's commitment to deepening gas utilization as an alternative automotive fuel and its focus on expanding the country's gas infrastructure.
NIPCO Gas is dedicated to providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions to Nigerian communities and advocating for cleaner options like AutoCNG to foster a more eco-friendly and sustainable future.
We have continuously invested substantial resources in developing infrastructures that support viable energy alternatives for both motorists and industrial applications, demonstrating our commitment to capitalizing on the nation's gas potential.
The award aims to recognize individuals and companies whose work has impacted the nation's development, according to Mr Yakubu Lawal, Chairman of the Editorial Board of Energy Times.
NIPCO has done very well as pioneers in the Auto CNG sector, and NNPC & FG are partnering with them to expand gas infrastructure for motorists and industries to use gas as a fuel.
Lawal mentioned that the company's expertise would contribute to the country's efforts to utilize the abundant gas resources as an alternative to petrol.