Matawalle Flags Off CNG Vehicles for Military, Says Sustainability Now Core to Defence Strategy

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, has declared a new era of innovation and sustainability in Nigeria’s military, as he commissioned a fleet of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles for the Armed Forces at a ceremony held at the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja.

Describing the initiative as a key step under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Dr. Matawalle stated that the introduction of CNG-powered vehicles is not just about cleaner fuel, but a strategic overhaul of military logistics aimed at energy efficiency, cost savings, and climate responsibility.

“This transition to CNG vehicles aligns with President Tinubu’s vision of positioning Nigeria as a global leader in clean energy adoption,” he said. “It is part of a broader strategy to enhance our energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and contribute to a more sustainable future.”

He further explained that the move would enable the military to cut down significantly on fuel costs while reducing the carbon footprint of its operations — a development he described as crucial to Nigeria’s efforts to meet global climate targets.

“This initiative represents more than just the unveiling of new vehicles. It’s a transformation of how our Armed Forces operate. Sustainability must become a fundamental strategy, not just an ideal,” the Minister said.

Dr. Matawalle was joined at the event by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR; and the Executive Chairman of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi), Barrister Ismael Ahmad.

During the event, the Minister inspected the new CNG vehicles and test-drove one of them. He underscored the significance of the locally developed fleet as a demonstration of Nigeria’s growing industrial and technological capabilities.

Speaking to the press shortly after the tour, he affirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the military in its counter-insurgency and internal security efforts.

“Our Armed Forces remain on the frontlines, and this administration will continue to equip them with the tools they need. President Tinubu is fully committed to this cause. I assure Nigerians that we will soon neutralize the terrorists,” he said.

He also urged citizens to sustain prayers and support for the military personnel risking their lives across various theatres of operation, reaffirming the backing of the Commander-in-Chief for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

As part of long-term implementation, Dr. Matawalle called for the establishment of CNG refuelling stations across all military bases, and stressed the importance of building technical capacity for the operation and maintenance of the new vehicles.

He concluded by stating that this commissioning marks only the beginning of a much larger initiative to integrate clean energy across the entire defence sector.

“This marks the beginning of a new era for the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Our military must lead by example, proving that sustainability is not just a goal but a core defence strategy,” the Minister said.