The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to unlocking the transformative potential of methanol fuel as a viable pathway for Nigeria’s sustainable development.
Speaking at the stakeholders’ workshop on the Implementation of Selected Trials of Methanol Fuel Adoption, Diffusion and Promotion, held in Abuja, the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Esuabana Nko-Asanye emphasised methanol’s value chain as a game-changer for clean energy, transportation and climate action. She was represented by the director of environmental science technology, Ogwuche Bernadette.
She stated that methanol fuel technology offers multiple benefits – including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting clean transport options, supporting Nigeria’s climate change mitigation goals and advancing socio-economic development across the country.
“The success of these zonal trials will not only inform the possibility of a national rollout,” she said, “but also position Nigeria as a leading voice in methanol fuel development and deployment in Africa.”
Nko-Asanye noted that the Ministry is working closely with other government bodies to support the national methanol policy. This, she said, is expected to create jobs, especially for young people and help alleviate poverty.
She also highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. These NDCs identify energy, oil and gas, transportation, industry and agriculture as priority sectors for climate mitigation. The revised NDCs submitted in 2021 aim for a 47 per cent reduction in emissions by 2030.
In a statement issued by the head of press and public relations, Pauline Sule the permanent secretary stressed that the ministry would continue engaging stakeholders to complete components of the methanol project. Findings from the pilot trials will be presented to the Federal Executive Council for consideration toward transitioning Nigeria into a methanol-driven economy.
Earlier, assistant director of environmental science technology, Ibok Edifion underscored the national importance of methanol fuel. He said the ministry is working with partners to ensure Nigeria becomes a continental leader in methanol production.
