The Independent Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) is taking an active stance in promoting the adoption of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) project, and they are urging the Federal Government to collaborate with them to achieve an effective and accelerated implementation. Mr. Chinedu Anyaso, the Chairman of IPMAN Enugu Depot Community, made a compelling call during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Awka on Thursday.
IPMAN’s Enugu Depot Community encompasses Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu states, making it a significant player in the downstream sector of Nigeria’s petroleum industry. Their widespread presence across the nation positions them advantageously to spearhead the transition to CNG in a more expeditious manner.
To ensure the smooth execution of the CNG project, Anyaso emphasized the importance of the Federal Government’s support through providing proper training and funding for IPMAN members. By doing so, the participation of independent marketers in the CNG scheme would foster speed, widespread adoption, and healthy competition, all while minimizing administrative bottlenecks.
“The desire of the Federal Government to find an alternative to Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) is commendable, especially given the current skyrocketing prices of PMS, which have led to inflation and an economic slowdown,” remarked Anyaso. The call to embrace CNG is a timely response to the challenges faced by the petroleum sector, and IPMAN sees it as a viable solution to bridge the energy gap in the country.
IPMAN is poised to play a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the CNG project, as they already possess a robust downstream infrastructure with over 21 depots and thousands of outlets spread throughout Nigeria. Leveraging IPMAN’s existing network for distribution would expedite the process significantly compared to the complexities of engaging new vendors. The key to making this a reality lies in ensuring that IPMAN members receive the right funding and training.
Anyaso proposed a collaborative approach where the government works closely with IPMAN depot leaders. These leaders have valuable statistics regarding their members’ capacities and capabilities, which would be instrumental in driving and executing the CNG policy efficiently. This collaboration would not only enhance energy security but also contribute to a stronger and more resilient energy market.
Addressing the long-standing challenges in the petroleum sector, Anyaso urged the government to prioritize the urgent repair of the nation’s refineries. This long-term solution would reduce the country’s dependence on imported petroleum products and establish a more sustainable energy landscape.
Ultimately, the effective implementation of the CNG project holds the promise of providing Nigerians with quality energy alternatives. By embracing CNG, the nation can decrease its reliance on traditional fossil fuels, leading to a greener and more sustainable future. It would also enhance energy security by diversifying the energy mix and reducing the vulnerability to international oil price fluctuations.
