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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Barrister Ismael Ahmed as the Executive Chairman of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi), a strategic programme aimed at cushioning the impact of fuel subsidy removal through the promotion of cleaner and more affordable energy alternatives.
The announcement was made in an official statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. The statement outlined that Ahmed’s new role will involve the overall coordination and supervision of the initiative’s operations, ensuring the delivery of its mandate to provide compressed natural gas (CNG) as a viable and accessible energy solution for Nigerians.
The PCNGi forms a critical part of President Tinubu’s broader palliative intervention strategy, designed to ease the economic burden on citizens following the government’s decision to eliminate petroleum subsidies. By focusing on compressed natural gas, the administration aims to reduce energy costs for transportation and other sectors, while promoting environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional fossil fuels.
Ismael Ahmed, who is 45 years old, brings to the role a solid background in governance and public policy. He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from the University of Abuja, earned in 2005, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2006 after completing studies at the Nigerian Law School, Abuja.
Furthering his education abroad, Ahmed obtained a Master’s degree in International Relations, Communications, and Diplomacy from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri, United States, in 2008. His academic and professional journey reflects a blend of legal expertise and international exposure.
Before his latest appointment, Ahmed served in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari as the Senior Special Assistant on the National Social Investment Programme between 2018 and 2022. During his tenure, he was actively involved in key government initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and improving social welfare across the country.
With his background in social investment and policy coordination, Ahmed is expected to drive the PCNGi with a strong focus on sustainability, inclusion, and effective service delivery.