Dangote Cement Plc is taking a big step toward a cleaner future by investing over $280 million in compressed natural gas (CNG) technology. This effort aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiative to make fuel more affordable and environmentally friendly for Nigerians, focusing on Nigeria’s rich natural gas reserves as a key energy source.
President Tinubu has emphasized the need to use natural gas in transportation, describing it as essential for Nigeria’s economy. Part of this initiative includes providing one million free CNG conversion kits to help commercial vehicles switch to this cleaner fuel, making it easier for drivers to make the transition.
Dangote Cement is leading the way in this shift. The company’s Group Managing Director, Arvind Pathak, shared that their goal is to run most of their trucks on CNG by mid-2026. With 1,500 CNG-powered trucks already in service and more on the way, they’re working to expand CNG fueling infrastructure to keep up with their fleet’s needs. Pathak noted that by early 2025, they aim to accelerate this transition, ensuring their trucks have reliable access to CNG.
In addition, Dangote Cement operates a CNG refueling station in Obajana that can service over 3,000 trucks, with plans for another station in Ibese. This infrastructure not only supports Dangote’s fleet but also boosts Nigeria’s shift toward cleaner energy.
Aliko Dangote, the President and CEO of Dangote Group, expressed that the company’s move to CNG fits well with Nigeria’s climate goals under the Paris Agreement, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2060. He believes the company’s early adoption of CNG shows its commitment to both sustainability and operational efficiency.
With this investment, Dangote Cement is setting an example for other businesses in Africa to adopt cleaner energy. Their approach shows that private companies can play a big role in tackling climate change while also contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and job creation. This move by Dangote underscores the power of clean energy to drive business success and support a sustainable future for Nigeria.