Shafa Energy, a subsidiary of AYM Shafa Holdings Limited, has announced the official launch of its first Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refuelling station in Abuja. The initiative, branded Shafa CNG, aligns with the Federal Government’s drive to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal while advancing the country’s transition toward sustainable energy.
The launch, which is expected to significantly bolster the supply of affordable energy for transportation and industrial use, is seen as a vital contribution to the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) introduced in 2023 by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking on the development, the Executive Chairman of AYM Shafa Holdings, Alhaji Yakubu Maishanu, emphasized that the launch of Shafa CNG marks a transformative step in Nigeria’s clean energy journey. According to him, the CNG rollout supports the federal government’s strategy to reduce dependence on petrol and cut down energy costs following the removal of fuel subsidies.
“Shafa CNG represents a major step forward in our commitment to sustainable energy solutions. It not only aligns with the Federal Government’s vision for a cleaner and more affordable energy future but also demonstrates our dedication to reducing our environmental footprint,” Maishanu stated.
He noted that Nigeria’s switch to CNG has seen increasing private sector participation, with over $440 million in private investment already attracted, and conversion centres expanding from 7 to 193 across the country within a short period.
Compressed Natural Gas is widely recognised for its eco-friendliness, lower carbon emissions, and cost-efficiency compared to traditional petroleum fuels. Shafa CNG, the company says, is aimed at delivering dependable, safe, and affordable CNG refuelling solutions to meet the growing demand for alternative energy in Nigeria’s transportation and industrial sectors.
“Our CNG solutions are designed to meet today’s energy needs while also safeguarding the future. The launch of Shafa CNG reflects our innovation-driven culture and our desire to positively impact Nigerian lives,” Maishanu added.
The Federal Government’s Presidential CNG Initiative aims to launch one million CNG-powered vehicles by 2027, while also establishing 1,000 conversion and refuelling stations nationwide. The opening of Shafa’s Abuja station contributes to this ambitious national target and showcases the private sector’s vital role in driving energy reforms.
Maishanu reaffirmed the company’s commitment to working collaboratively with stakeholders, including regulators, vehicle operators, and the general public, to ensure the successful adoption and integration of CNG technology across the country.
“We are committed to supporting the government’s goals and partnering with like-minded organisations to promote cleaner transport options. This is not just a business move — it is a national responsibility,” he concluded.
As Nigeria grapples with high transportation costs and environmental challenges, the shift to CNG is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower operational costs for transporters, and create thousands of skilled jobs in areas like vehicle conversion, maintenance, and fuel distribution.
Industry experts also predict that as more CNG stations like Shafa’s come online, the downstream sector will experience renewed growth driven by sustainability goals and rising consumer demand for cost-effective alternatives.
With Shafa Energy taking the lead, the Abuja station is poised to become a model for future CNG infrastructure projects across Nigeria.