Compressed Natural Gas: A Dual Solution to Nigeria’s Environmental and Economic Issues

Sunny Oluku and Evwiekpamare Fidelis Olori
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Sunny Oluku: Department of Geography and Regional Planning, Igbinedion Univeristy, Okada
Evwiekpamare Fidelis Olori: GBS/Oxford Brookes University, UK

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science, 2025, vol. 10, issue 5, 1-15

Abstract: Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) presents a promising solution to address two of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges: environmental degradation and economic instability. This paper assessed Compressed Natural Gas: A Dual Solution to Nigeria’s Environmental and Economic Issues, examining the interface between environmental and economic challenges while exploring the forces shaping Nigeria’s landscape. Relying on secondary data and descriptive analysis, the study reveals that as Nigeria undergoes economic growth, it faces increasing air pollution—particularly from vehicular emissions—reflecting the early stages of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) theory, which posits that environmental degradation initially worsens with economic development but improves as income levels rise and cleaner technologies are adopted. In this context, CNG emerges as a cleaner, more sustainable alternative to petroleum-based fuels, offering lower carbon emissions and a reduced environmental footprint in the transportation sector. Furthermore, through the lens of Energy Transition Theory, the paper situates CNG as a transitional fuel that can bridge Nigeria’s shift from high-carbon energy sources to a more diversified, low-carbon energy future. The potential for job creation, local production, and enhanced energy diversification positions CNG as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth. By tapping into abundant domestic natural gas reserves, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on imported fuels, stabilize energy prices, and promote long-term energy security. The paper concludes with recommendations emphasizing that the dual benefit of environmental sustainability and economic enhancement makes CNG a critical component of Nigeria’s future development strategy. It also discusses the feasibility of CNG adoption, evaluating its environmental impact, economic potential, and the necessary infrastructure investments required to make it a viable national solution.

Date: 2025
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