The federal government has launched a website that allows users to convert their petrol-powered vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG) and pay later.

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) announced the new initiative on its X handle in a statement on Tuesday.

“Switching to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is now more accessible than ever,” NOA said.

“With flexible payment plans tailored to fit your budget, transitioning from petrol to CNG has never been smoother or more affordable.

“These payment options allow you to convert your vehicle now and pay later with affordable monthly instalments at competitive rates.”

The agency said with an easy online application and quick approval process, beneficiaries would be supported every step of the way, to ensure a hassle-free experience.

“Visit: gocng.ng to get started,” NOA said.

According to the agency, the benefits of CNG include cost savings, environmental impact, enhanced engine life, safety and reliability, as well as proven technology with a track record of safety and dependable performance.

On October 7, the federal government launched a portal that would allow youths to access CNG-powered tricycles.

In his remarks, Michael Oluwagbemi, project director and chief executive officer (CEO) of the presidential CNG initiative (P-CNGi) said the initiative would enhance the economic well-being of Nigerians by reducing dependence on petrol.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says applications for the direct short-service cadets (DSSC) programme will open on October 14.

In a post on X on Wednesday, NAF said online registration will end on November 26.

The NAF said the enlistment is for graduates and postgraduates, who must be of Nigerian origin by birth.

“Applicants must not be less than 1.66 and 1.63 metres tall for male and female candidates, respectively,” the post reads.

“Applicants must be medically, physically, and psychologically fit; applicants must be free of any criminal conviction by the court of law.

“Applicants must be between the ages of 20 and 30 — but the age requirement for medical consultants is between 25 and 40 years.

“All applicants must possess a minimum of second-class upper division with five credits in a related course of study: a discharge certificate/letter of exemption from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and a certificate of full registration with their respective statutory professional bodies in Nigeria.

“All candidates are expected to possess a LGA attestation, a passport photograph, and means of identification, such as a driver’s license, national identification number, or international passport.

“Applicants are advised to print out acknowledgement slips and LGA attestation forms after completing the application.”

NAF noted that the online registration is free of charge, adding that computer literacy will be an advantage.

It added that successful applicants will be invited for selection board interview exercises through the registration portal.

Interested applicants are to apply online at https://airforce.mil.ng/.

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has launched an unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) code designed to simplify tax processes and “improve taxpayers’ satisfaction”.

The code, *829#, was unveiled on Wednesday by Zacch Adedeji, the FIRS chairman, at the revenue house in Abuja during the celebration of the 2024 customer service week.

Speaking at the launch, Adedeji said the initiative makes Nigeria the sixth African country to deploy USSD code to simplify tax payment processes.

He said taxpayers on any mobile telecommunication network in the country can now get real-time access to the FIRS on tax-related issues.

The taxman said the instant messaging protocol demonstrates the agency’s commitment to simplifying tax administration, ensuring that “all taxpayers—whether in bustling cities or remote areas can engage with FIRS seamlessly”.

He encouraged taxpayers to take full advantage of the benefits provided by the USSD for all their inquiries.

“With the *829# USSD code, taxpayers now have the power to: retrieve their taxpayer identification number (TIN), verify their tax clearance certificate (TCC), access information on tax types and rates, locate the nearest FIRS office, and get answers to general tax-related inquiries,” Adedeji said.

“Without the need for internet access, all of these services are now available with a simple mobile phone.

“This technological leap reflects our dedication to creating a tax system that is efficient, transparent, and responsive to the needs of taxpayers.”

‘CUSTOMER GUIDE WILL DRIVE OUR INTERACTIONS WITH TAXPAYERS’

Meanwhile, the FIRS also launched its customer-centric guide, a handbook detailing the agency’s policies, processes and procedures aimed at maintaining taxpayers’ status as “kings” in its service approach.

The guide reaffirms FIRS’s commitment to treating taxpayers as valued partners in nation-building, the agency said in a statement on Wednesday.

“This guide embodies our commitment to putting taxpayers at the centre of our service delivery,” the statement reads.

“It outlines the principles and values that will drive our interactions with taxpayers by ensuring that every engagement is defined by respect, professionalism, and efficiency.

“The guide serves as a reminder to us all that the taxpayer is not just a client, but a valued partner in nation-building.

“Through the combination of the *829# USSD code and the customer centricity guide, we are reinforcing a culture of service excellence and making tax compliance not just a duty but an experience that fosters trust and voluntary participation.

“As we celebrate this achievement, I encourage everyone to make full use of the *829# service and embrace the customer centricity guide. Your feedback will be crucial as we continue to enhance these services and meet the evolving needs of our taxpayers.”

On his part, Nnenna Akajemeli, national coordinator of Servicom, praised the FIRS for its continuous efforts to enhance taxpayer satisfaction.

She commended the introduction of the USSD code and the handbook, noting their role in simplifying tax processes and improving service quality.