Assessment of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Adoption for Public Transportation in Lagos State

The persistent energy crisis in Nigeria has renewed interest in alternative vehicular fuels, particularly compressed natural gas (CNG), as a substitute for premium motor spirit (PMS). This study assesses the feasibility and current status of CNG adoption for public transportation in Lagos State, focusing on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridors and commercial minibus (danfo) operations. A mixed-method approach was employed, incorporating structured interviews with transport operators, analysis of fuelling infrastructure data from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and a review of cost-benefit comparisons between CNG and PMS. The study investigates barriers to adoption including high conversion costs, limited refuelling infrastructure, and insufficient public awareness among drivers and fleet owners. It also examines the role of government incentives and recent policy pronouncements under Nigeria's Decade of Gas initiative. Preliminary findings suggest that while CNG offers a 40 to 60 percent cost advantage per kilometre over PMS, the upfront investment in vehicle conversion deters adoption among low-income transport operators. The research proposes a structured subsidy framework and a phased infrastructure rollout plan targeting high-density transport corridors in Lagos. These findings are relevant to transport planners, gas distribution companies, and policymakers seeking to deepen domestic gas utilisation. Keywords: CNG, public transportation, Lagos, gas adoption, energy transition.