Oredola Adeola
NIPCO Gas has been honoured with the title of Innovative Gas Company of the Year by Energy Times Newspaper, in recognition of the company’s pioneering initiatives in advancing the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and contribution to the expansion of gas infrastructure in Nigeria.
The company received the award at the weekend during the Energy Times Awards held in Lagos.
Nagendra Verma, MD NIPCO Gas Limited, in his acceptance speech commended the organizers for the award, which according to him, reflects its contributions to the nation’s gas sector within the hydrocarbon industry.
According to him, the accolade of Most Innovative Gas Company of the Year aptly acknowledges our endeavors in the gas sector, marked by the launch of our inaugural Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) station in Benin City, Edo State, in 2009.
He said, “The honour serves as recognition of our steadfast commitment to deepening gas utilization as an alternative automotive fuel.
“The distinguished award also underscores NIPCO Gas’s firm unwavering focus on expanding the country’s gas infrastructure. We are honored to have our efforts in the sector acknowledged in a significant way as you have done,” the NIPCO MD stated.
Verma emphasised that NIPCO Gas stands as a prominent energy enterprise, devoted to providing dependable and sustainable energy solutions to Nigerian communities.
He said, “Prioritizing innovation and ecological stewardship, NIPCO Gas is determined to drive positive transformation in the energy industry, advocating for cleaner options like AutoCNG to foster a more eco-friendly and sustainable future.
“Reflecting our commitment to capitalizing on the nation’s gas potential, we have consistently invested substantial human and material resources in developing infrastructures that bolster viable energy alternatives for both motorists and industrial applications,” he said.
Verma noted that a prime illustration of NIPCO’s dedication is the recent partnership between NNPC Ltd. and NIPCO Gas Ltd., which aims to establish CNG stations nationwide.
He said, “This significant venture will enhance Nigeria’s CNG framework, broaden CNG availability, and foster the transition to a more affordable and eco-friendly fuel alternative for various vehicles.
“The initiative, introduced by NNPC Limited’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mallam Mele Kyari, is set to offer diverse fuel choices to Nigerians in the wake of the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) subsidy removal.
“The goal is to create a network of CNG stations throughout the country. Under the partnership, NIPCO Gas has committed construction of 35 CNG Stations initially across states of Nigeria.
He also revealed that NIPCO Gas Limited has 16 CNG outlets and has successfully converted over 8,000 vehicles to CNG.
“The firm’s expertise and experience are instrumental in supporting the government’s renewed efforts to make fuel more economical and to enhance its beneficial impact on the national economy,” Verma said.
MD, NIPCO Gas Limited therefore noted that the award has motivated the company to further contribute to the industry’s expansion in every aspect.
He therefore emphasised NIPCO’s commitment to the nation’s progress, particularly in the gas segment of the hydrocarbon industry.
“This accolade is a tribute to the dedication of my colleagues at NIPCO Gas Limited, whose relentless pursuit of excellence has significantly shaped our company’s impressive growth over time,” he said.
Alhaji Yakubu Lawal, Chairman Editorial Board, Energy Times, in his comment at the Conferment of award – The Most Innovative Gas Company of the Year 2024 to NIPCO Gas said that the award is meant to appreciate and recognize those individuals and companies whose works have in one way or the other impacted the nation’s development.
According to him, as pioneers in the Auto CNG sector, NIPCO has performed excellently with NNPC & FG partners to grow gas infrastructure to enable motorists and industries alike to have access to gas as auto fuel.
He further emphasised that NIPCO’s expertise would add value to the nation’s efforts to harness the abundant gas resources in the country as an alternative fuel to petrol.
