FG Urges Citizens to Embrace Low Sulphur Fuels and CNG for a Cleaner Future

• The federal government is promoting low sulphur fuel and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as environmentally friendly alternatives.
• Low sulphur fuel is expected to reduce air pollution and related health issues such as asthma and bronchitis.
• The revised Nigeria Industrial Standards for sulphur concentrations in fuels are a step toward cleaner energy and improved public health.
• The initiative is supported by various stakeholders to ensure a cleaner environment for current and future generations.

The federal government has emphasized the environmental benefits of low sulphur fuel and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as part of efforts to reduce pollution and promote cleaner energy sources.

Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, made this statement during the inauguration of the Inter-Agency Committee on Fuels, aimed at promoting the use of low sulphur fuel and CNG in Nigeria. The committee’s goal is to drive awareness and encourage the adoption of these cleaner alternatives to safeguard the environment.

Lawal explained that the use of low sulphur fuel and CNG would play a crucial role in mitigating air pollution and the health risks associated with high sulphur content in petroleum products. He noted that high sulphur fuels contribute to climate change, extreme weather conditions, and deteriorating air quality, which in turn exacerbate respiratory and other health issues. Specifically, he pointed out the link between high sulphur fuels and increasing cases of asthma, bronchitis, and chronic lung diseases.

The Minister further highlighted that the revision of Nigeria’s Industrial Standards for sulphur concentration in fuels like petrol, diesel, and kerosene was a significant step toward cleaner energy. This achievement was made possible through the Ministry’s efforts and collaboration with key stakeholders.

Mrs. Bahijjatu Abubakar, Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health at the Federal Ministry of Environment, also expressed her gratitude to committee members for their commitment to supporting the Ministry’s initiative to achieve clean air and a healthier environment.