KEY POINTS
- A new CNG refuelling station has been opened at OAU as part of a nationwide plan to deploy 20 such facilities in federal universities.
- The project is designed to cut transport costs, reduce pollution, and provide research and learning opportunities.
- Donations of CNG buses and tricycles will make clean and affordable transport more accessible for students and staff.
The Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF) has officially opened a modern Compressed Natural Gas, CNG, refuelling station at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, marking another move toward expanding Nigeria’s gas-powered transport system.
The fund, which operates under the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, says the project is part of its broader mission to boost investment across Nigeria’s gas sector and make domestic gas more widely used.
Speaking during the commissioning, MDGIF Executive Director Oluwole Adama described the station as a real-life example of Nigeria’s transition toward cleaner energy. According to him, the facility is one of 20 similar stations planned for federal universities nationwide.
The Vice Chancellor, Adebayo Simeon Bamire, praised the initiative, noting that the station will serve both the university and nearby residents.
He explained that beyond transportation benefits, it will open doors for research, practical training, and innovation in alternative fuels, while strengthening ties between the institution and its host community.
Public–Private Partnership Driving the Project
The station was built through collaboration between MDGIF, FEMADEC Group, and the Presidential CNG Initiative. The goal is to create integrated CNG systems across 20 federal universities, reducing pollution and transport costs on campuses.
FEMADEC’s Group Managing Director, Akinnola Fola, reaffirmed his company’s commitment to expanding safe and efficient gas infrastructure nationwide through strong cooperation between government and private investors.
To support the shift to cleaner transportation, Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, donated 50 CNG-powered buses to the university. In addition, PiCNG supplied 10 CNG tricycles to make commuting more affordable for students and staff.
FEMADEC Energy Limited, the project’s technical partner, is known for developing gas infrastructure, converting vehicles to run on gas, and providing gas-powered transport solutions.
