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The federal government of Nigeria has been strongly advised to intensify efforts in expanding the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative in northern Nigeria, following widespread concerns about the slow and inadequate implementation of the program in the region. Industry experts and stakeholders gathered in Maiduguri, Borno State, during a roundtable discussion to express their dissatisfaction with the current pace and management of the CNG rollout, particularly targeting the company contracted to lead the project in the north.
The Development and Safety Professional Association (DSPA), which hosted the discussion on May 24, 2025, lamented the lack of progress in the north compared to other parts of the country. The regional coordinator, Engr. Bukar Hashimu Goni, praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision behind the CNG initiative, describing it as a “noble and commendable policy” designed to alleviate the effects of fuel subsidy removal. However, he criticized the poor execution of the program in northern states, especially under the stewardship of Rolling Energy, the firm responsible for the region.
“We have closely monitored the performance of all private firms engaged by the federal government for this project,” Engr. Goni said. “Unfortunately, Rolling Energy’s handling of the northern sector is disappointing and raises questions about their capability and commitment.”
According to Engr. Goni, Rolling Energy currently has three sites in Maiduguri that remain incomplete, with no clear timelines for their completion. The situation is even more troubling in key northern commercial hubs such as Kano and Kaduna, where there is virtually no presence of CNG infrastructure. He further highlighted a small, underperforming site in Kwara State, which he described as insufficient to meet local demand.
Adding weight to these concerns, DSPA’s technical director, Architect Mansur Walid, urged federal authorities, including President Tinubu and the National Security Adviser (NSA), to investigate the operations of Rolling Energy. Walid expressed suspicions about possible deliberate sabotage and mismanagement, pointing out that the firm’s majority management comprises Indian nationals.
“It is perplexing that while other firms are making considerable progress in southern Nigeria, Rolling Energy struggles to take off in the north,” Walid remarked. “This discrepancy demands a thorough probe to ensure the federal government’s resources and policies are not being undermined.”
The experts also called on the government to review existing contracts and consider awarding the CNG projects to firms with proven capacity, local knowledge, and commitment to Nigeria’s northern region. Such measures, they argued, would help reduce regional disparities in infrastructure development and energy access, aligning with the national agenda for inclusive growth.
The federal government launched the CNG initiative as part of its broader energy transition and subsidy reform strategy. The program aims to reduce the country’s reliance on petrol and diesel by promoting cleaner, cheaper, and more sustainable energy sources like natural gas. CNG vehicles are also expected to benefit consumers through reduced fuel costs and lower environmental pollution.
However, the slow pace of rollout in northern Nigeria threatens to undermine these goals and deepen economic inequalities between regions. Northern Nigeria, home to millions and key economic centers, stands to gain significantly from affordable and cleaner fuel options.
Stakeholders emphasize that accelerating the CNG project will also create jobs, boost local economies, and reduce the negative health impacts of traditional fuel use. They urge the federal government to urgently intervene and ensure that the rollout benefits all Nigerians equitably.
In summary, the call to intensify the CNG rollout in northern Nigeria highlights the need for accountable project management and stronger federal oversight. The recommendations from experts aim to support President Tinubu’s vision while addressing regional imbalances and promoting sustainable development.