By Milcah Tanimu

The Nigerian Federal Government, led by Minister of Transportation Said Alkali, is exploring the possibility of converting Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) locomotives from diesel to more sustainable energy sources such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG). This move aims to align the corporation with environmentally friendly practices while also reducing operational expenses.

In a statement released by the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Olujimi Oyetomi, on Thursday, the government reaffirmed its commitment to providing efficient and cost-effective transportation solutions, especially in light of recent fuel subsidy removals.

On March 12, 2024, the De-Sadel consortium presented an LNG-CNG alternative for consideration by the Ministry of Transportation and the NRC at the Ministry’s headquarters.

Minister Alkali expressed optimism that transitioning to gas-powered locomotives could enhance the efficiency and affordability of rail services for Nigerians, particularly given recent changes in fuel subsidy policies.

To expedite the process, Alkali has directed the formation of a seven-member technical committee tasked with evaluating the feasibility and potential benefits of retrofitting NRC locomotives with LNG-CNG technology. The committee has been given a timeframe of seven to 14 days to deliver their recommendations.

Alkali emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of providing an efficient and sustainable transportation system for Nigeria’s citizens, stating that the proposed retrofitting by the De-Sadel Company would be at zero cost to the government, with replacements provided in case of damage.

In line with the gradual transition plan, Alkali proposed starting with a 50-50 ratio of diesel to gas usage, eventually progressing to 0-100 gas usage.

Following the directive, the technical committee conducted evaluations, confirming the viability of retrofitting NRC locomotives with LNG-CNG technology after visiting NRC’s workshop in Idu, Abuja, on March 13, 2024.

Managing Director of De-Sadel Consortium, Sam Uko, highlighted the benefits of adopting LNG-CNG technology, including cost reduction and prolonged engine lifespan. The consortium has already prepared 50 gas-powered locomotives for deployment and has committed to supplying gas for five years to alleviate concerns about scarcity.

Uko clarified that the implementation strategy of retrofitting into a dual-fuel locomotive should not be seen as engine conversion or modification. Additionally, the consortium proposed security installations along rail corridors to enhance safety and prevent vandalism, utilizing real-time monitoring systems to ensure continuous operation and increase revenue from gas usage for the NRC.