The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority has launched an integrated compressed natural gas (CNG) refuelling facility at Obafemi Awolowo University, marking a new step in efforts to expand the use of gas as an alternative fuel in Nigeria.
The facility was delivered through the authority’s gas-focused arm, the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund, and is part of a wider strategy to deepen investment across the gas value chain while encouraging domestic gas consumption.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the fund’s executive director, Oluwole Adama, described the project as a practical example of Nigeria’s gradual shift toward cleaner energy. He explained that the OAU station is among 20 similar CNG projects planned for federal universities nationwide, aimed at improving access to gas infrastructure, supporting cleaner mobility, and delivering social and economic benefits to host communities.
The Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Adebayo Bamire, welcomed the development, noting that the facility would serve both the university population and surrounding residents. According to him, the project will open up opportunities for research, hands-on learning, and innovation in alternative fuels, while also strengthening ties between the institution and its host community.
Also speaking at the event, Akinnola Fola, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Femadec Group, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to building safe and scalable CNG infrastructure through collaboration between the public and private sectors.
The OAU project is being implemented through a partnership involving MDGIF, Femadec Energy, and the Presidential CNG Initiative. NMDPRA said the initiative is designed to reduce transportation costs and emissions on campus by providing CNG-powered buses and vehicle conversion services for students, staff, and nearby communities.
The authority added that beyond cleaner transport, the facility is expected to support applied research, encourage innovation, and boost community engagement around sustainable energy solutions.
