President Tinubu Approves Expansion Of PiCNG Mandate To Include Electric Vehicles

President Tinubu Approves Expansion of PiCNG Mandate to Include Electric Vehicles President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the expansion of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PiCNG) to include electric vehicles (EVs), in a strategic move to accelerate Nigeria’s transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy in the transportation sector.
The expansion signals the Federal Government’s commitment to diversifying energy sources, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and promoting environmentally friendly mobility solutions, in line with global energy transition trends. According to officials, the inclusion of electric vehicles into the PiCNG framework will broaden the scope of the initiative beyond compressed natural gas, creating a dual-track approach that supports both gas-powered and electric mobility systems across the country. The initiative is expected to drive investment in EV infrastructure, including charging stations, local assembly, and maintenance ecosystems, while also encouraging private sector participation and innovation in green transport technologies. Government sources indicated that the policy will support affordability and accessibility, with plans to introduce incentives, financing mechanisms, and partnerships aimed at making electric vehicles more accessible to Nigerians. The expansion is also projected to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and lower transportation costs over time, particularly in urban centres where vehicular emissions contribute significantly to environmental pollution. Officials emphasised that the move aligns with Nigeria’s broader climate commitments and sustainable development goals, while positioning the country as a forward-looking player in the global clean energy transition. The PiCNG initiative, originally launched to cushion the impact of fuel subsidy removal by promoting cheaper alternative fuels, has already recorded progress in expanding compressed natural gas adoption. The new directive is expected to build on that momentum by integrating electric mobility into the national transport ecosystem. Stakeholders in the energy and transportation sectors have welcomed the development, noting that a multi-energy approach will enhance resilience, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth through new value chains. The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the expanded mandate efficiently, ensuring that regulatory frameworks, infrastructure development, and stakeholder engagement are aligned to deliver measurable impact.
The policy forms part of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at fostering economic transformation, environmental sustainability, and improved quality of life for Nigerians.