Nigeria Discusses Domestication of ECOWAS Clean fuels and Vehicles Directives

Others who spoke at the workshop include the Permanent Secretary Women Affairs, Dr. Mrs.  Anthonia Ekpa, Engr. Aminu Jalal - former head of the NADDC, and UNEP representative Ms. Jane Akumu, all of whom noted the importance of adopting the regional standards for climate and health benefits.

The ECOWAS directives on cleaner fuels and vehicles that were adopted by the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in September 2020 were presented by Dr. Tony Ogbuigwe.  Participants were informed by Mr. Paul Pankes that the Standards Organization of Nigeria had already revised and published fuel standards some years back, and it was now a point of reviewing these to align to the regionally adopted ones and sensitizing stakeholders. Mr. Hussaini Basaka of the Department of Petroleum Resources spoke of the efforts by the Department to enforce these regulations.

During the discussions, it was noted that the country was already importing 50 ppm diesel fuels. The following recommendations were made on the implementation of the ECOWAS directives: i) all imported vehicles will be required to meet Euro 4/IV equivalent standards beginning July 1, 2021; ii) all fuels  will need to have a maximum Sulphur content of 50 ppm beginning July 1, 2021 and iii) existing refineries should be granted waivers until December, 2024 to implement necessary upgrades. Key agencies and actions to support the implementation of these standards were identified.

Participants also pointed to the need for enhanced communication and awareness campaigns around the benefits of the standards, the importance of regional harmonization of vehicle databases, nationwide vehicle inspection and maintenance facilities to ensure reduced vehicle emissions, among others.

The workshop was supported by UNEP with funding from CCAC Heavy Duty Vehicles Initiative.