Assessing policy frameworks for compressed natural gas transition and health security in Nigeria

Abstract

The slow populace embrace and inability of Nigeria’s tertiary institutions to hit the ground running on the much desired vehicular conversion to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) signaled policy framework missteps that need to be readdressed. So much so, the extent to which CNG serves as a cleaner-burning fuel, produces fewer pollutants of nitrogen oxides, and sulphur dioxide compared to traditional fossil fuels, earns it emerging patronage to mitigate climate change, conserve depleting foreign reserves, and ensure health security. The slow responsiveness to CNG and dearth of institutional patronage also validate policy gaps, thus the need for further interrogation. It was against this backdrop that this study engage Ecological Modernisation Theory to interrogate the influence of policy frameworks for CNG transition and attending health security in Nigeria. This study is disaggregated into CNG policy missteps and health security in Nigeria. The study engaged exploratory research design with reliance on internet materials, observations, government reports, and grey literature. Findings from the study showed that CNG innovative technology is negatively influenced by short term policy framework around Nigeria's search for energy mix. The Study also submitted that CNG adoption positively influence health security as seen in lower emission of pollutants which aggravate respiratory and other extant health challenges. Based on these findings, the study recommends both Federal and State Government should employed a Whole Society Approach when emplacing policy framework. The study also recommends that cost savings achieved on CNG adoptions should be used to advance an environmentally secured Nigeria space.