Petroleum Minister Opens CNG Center in Edo; Okpebholo Promises Investor-Friendly Environment

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo, said that the opening of the Diverse Autocare Centre Hub and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) facility in Benin, the capital of Edo State, is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda.

Speaking in Benin yesterday, Ekpo welcomed the new automobile conversion centre, describing it as a tangible sign of private‑sector confidence in natural gas as a cleaner, cheaper and more sustainable transport option.

“Today is a day that we should continue to celebrate the President because he is the initiator of what we are experiencing today, moving from expensive means of transportation to an effective one,” the minister said. “This facility is more than an automobile conversion centre; it is a practical demonstration of private‑sector confidence in the future of natural gas as a cleaner, more affordable and more sustainable means of transportation.”

Ekpo added that the inauguration supports the federal government’s decade‑long gas initiative, a strategic national programme aimed at turning Nigeria into a gas‑powered economy. He praised Greg Ogbeifun, Chairman of Diverse Autocare Centre Limited, for launching a project that aligns with President Tinubu’s priorities.

During the ceremony, Edo State Governor Sen. Monday Okpebholo assured investors that his administration would continue to foster an enabling business environment for both foreign and local enterprises. Okpebholo, represented by Deputy Governor Denise Idahosa, emphasized that the centre is not merely a building but a one‑stop facility for vehicle sales, servicing, diagnostics, spare‑parts fabrication, and, most importantly, training and skills transfer.

“This hub speaks to the future we are building for Edo. It is bold, it is modern, and it shows that our sons and daughters can return home to build, create jobs, and inspire the next generation,” Okpebholo said. “We understand one truth in government: security is the most important catalyst for economic growth. No investor puts money where there is fear.”

He added that the Okpebholo administration has prioritized security, strengthening community policing by properly equipping and training the Edo State Security Vigilante Network to work alongside federal security agencies. Okpebholo described the Edo model as clear: the government creates the environment, while the private sector creates the jobs. He noted that the era of waiting for government jobs alone is over, and that the new Edo rewards skills and encourages hard work.

Earlier in his remarks, Mr. Ogbeifun explained that he entered the initiative to raise awareness and create job opportunities for young people. He urged other investors to come to Edo, stating that the state is safe and business‑friendly.