Public Perception, Awareness, and Spatial Accessibility of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Infrastructure in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, Nigeria

The shift toward cleaner alternative fuels in Nigeria has intensified following recent national reforms and diversification of the energy sector. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is increasingly promoted as a low-cost and environmentally preferable option for both transport and household energy use. Nonetheless, levels of awareness, acceptance, and behavioural response vary across urban contexts, particularly in rapidly expanding areas such as Abeokuta South, Ogun State. This study assessed awareness, perception, accessibility, and adoption of CNG facilities using a cross-sectional survey of 180 respondents, analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Findings indicate a very high awareness level (88.2%; x² = 99.8, p<0.001), a mixed perception of benefits and associated constraints (67.1%; x² = 37.4, p<0.001; x² = 12.8, p<0.001; x² = 1.09, p>0.05; x² = 67.2, p<0.001), but low adoption primarily attributed to high conversion costs (75.3%). Public awareness of existing government policies was also low (36%). The findings further show a linear corridor distribution of facilities, with mother stations situated at the outskirts where industrial land is available, while conversion and refilling locations cluster within high-traffic transport hubs, reflecting a demand-led expansion that improves accessibility, supports mobility, and facilitates the ongoing energy transition. Consequently, policy actions are recommended toward expanding facility networks, strengthening safety communication, and integrating CNG deployment into urban-scale planning for sustainable fuel transitions.