Defense News 

Nigeria

The Nigerian Army has taken a significant step towards reducing its carbon footprint by signing an agreement with the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI). The agreement entails converting 30 petrol-powered vehicles to CNG-powered capabilities. This move is in line with the Standard Organisation of Nigeria's push for CNG use in road vehicles.

To facilitate the vehicle conversions, the Nigerian Army will collaborate with the National Institute of Transport Technology. Additionally, 22 of the army’s engineers will undergo a two-week conversion technology training provided by the institute.

According to Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Nigerian Army's Public Relations Director, this shift to green energy reflects the force’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Moreover, it is expected to be cost-effective in the long run.

This initiative follows a previous agreement in 2022 between the Nigerian Army and energy giant SIDIL Group. Under this agreement, renewable energy generators will be built in 107 army barracks and encampments. The project aims to generate 3.7 gigawatts of decentralized energy.

Currently, renewable energy contributes 16.4 percent of Nigeria's total electrical capacity. Complete transition to renewable energy by 2050 is estimated to cost approximately $4 billion.