The Nigerian government is encouraging citizens to embrace low sulphur fuels and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to help protect the environment and improve public health. This message was shared by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, during the inauguration of the Inter-Agency Committee on Fuels in Abuja.

Lawal emphasized the benefits of using cleaner fuels, which would significantly reduce air pollution and mitigate health challenges caused by high sulphur levels in petroleum products. He highlighted that high sulphur concentrations contribute to the worsening of extreme weather, dirty air, and the overall effects of climate change.

“High sulphur fuels have been linked to rising cases of asthma attacks, bronchitis, and other lung diseases,” Lawal said. “By adopting low sulphur fuels and CNG, we can help ensure a cleaner environment and better health for future generations.”

The minister also noted that the revised Nigeria Industrial Standards for sulphur concentration in fuels like petrol, diesel, and kerosene were made possible through the Ministry’s efforts and collaboration with key stakeholders.

In her remarks, Mrs. Bahijjatu Abubakar, the Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health at the Federal Ministry of Environment, expressed gratitude to the committee members for their commitment to supporting the Ministry in achieving clean air and a healthier environment.

The government has vowed to continue its awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the benefits of low sulphur fuels and CNG in combating air pollution and improving public health.