Nigeria Takes Steps Toward Cleaner Energy with Low Sulphur Fuels and CNG Promotion

The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has pledged to promote the benefits of Low Sulphur Fuels and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in Nigeria, assuring the public and key stakeholders of increased awareness of their environmental and health advantages. 

The Minister made this commitment during the inauguration of the Inter-Agency Committee on Fuels, tasked with advancing cleaner energy sources in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, Lawal emphasized the critical role that Low Sulphur Fuels and CNG can play in reducing air pollution and addressing the health challenges caused by high sulphur content in petroleum products. 

He expressed concern over the growing prevalence of respiratory issues such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive lung diseases, all of which have been linked to the high sulphur levels in fuels.

The Minister noted that the recent revisions to Nigeria’s Industrial Standards for Sulphur concentration in petroleum products—covering Diesel, Petrol, and Kerosene—were made possible through the Ministry’s efforts and the collaboration of key stakeholders. 

He said under the new standards, sulphur content in diesel has been reduced from 300ppm to 500ppm, while petrol and kerosene concentrations have been cut from 1,500ppm to 150ppm, with the transition period spanning from 2017 to 2019.

Lawal lamented the rise in the use of high-sulphur fuels, which has contributed to worsening air quality, extreme weather conditions, and the adverse effects of climate change. 

He reiterated that Nigeria’s drive for cleaner fuels is not only aimed at improving environmental quality but also at safeguarding public health and addressing climate change.

The newly inaugurated committee will focus on key initiatives, including the creation of a Pollution Monitoring Team, the development of quality reporting mechanisms, and the production of annual reports with recommendations to the Federal Executive Council. 

Additionally, the committee will work on simulations, pollution projection and mitigation goals, and develop action plans to help Nigeria meet its climate, health, and development targets.

In her closing remarks, Mrs. Bolorunduro B., Director of Environmental Assessment and Acting Permanent Secretary, urged committee members to pool their expertise to achieve the committee’s goals. 

Mrs. Bahijjatu Abubakar, Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, also expressed her gratitude to the committee members for their willingness to support the Ministry’s efforts in achieving cleaner air and a healthier environment for all Nigerians.

She noted that the move is part of Nigeria’s strategy to improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and promote cleaner energy solutions, in alignment with global environmental standards and health objectives.

At the 85th Anniversary of the Federal College of Forestry in Ibadan, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, 

Recall that the minister recently announced the federal government’s plan to elevate the Federal Colleges of Forestry in Ibadan and Jos to degree-awarding institutions. 

Lawal stated, “We are investing in programs that support forestry education and research. 

 “Together, we can develop policies that promote sustainable practices while ensuring the livelihoods of communities reliant on forestry.”