The Federal Government has launched 15 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses in Abuja, a key milestone in Nigeria’s shift towards cleaner and more affordable public transportation.
The buses were handed over to transport unions, including the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), and National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), as part of the President’s Renewed Hope Clean Energy Transport Scheme.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Transportation, Sen Said Ahmed Alkali, emphasized the scheme’s alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of sustainability and innovation in the transport sector.
“This initiative is about creating a new path that prioritizes innovation, sustainability, and the well-being of every Nigerian. These buses symbolize our commitment to empowering citizens while transitioning to a cleaner energy economy,” Alkali stated.
The Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, lauded the initiative, describing it as a crucial step in reducing transportation costs for commuters and operators.
Ekpo highlighted the federal government’s focus on CNG as a cleaner and more affordable alternative to traditional fuels, aligning with the nation’s “Decade of Gas” initiative.
“This project is not only about buses; it is about transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape. It offers reliable, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation for all Nigerians,” Ekpo said.
To encourage adoption, the buses will offer free rides in the Federal Capital Territory for 40 days, after which discounted fares will apply.
Programme Director of the Presidential CNG Initiative, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, underscored the economic and environmental benefits of CNG-powered transportation.
“With over 150 CNG fueling stations operational and plans for further expansion, we are paving the way for cleaner, affordable transportation infrastructure across Nigeria. This initiative creates jobs, reduces fuel imports, and supports Nigeria’s natural gas industry,” Oluwagbemi stated.
Since October 2023, significant strides have been made, including increasing CNG-powered vehicles from fewer than 4,000 to an expected 50,000 by the end of 2024. Over 1,000 technicians have been trained, and new standards for CNG vehicles and infrastructure have been established.
Executive National President of RTEAN, Dr. Musa Mohammed Maitakobi, expressed gratitude to the government for alleviating financial pressure on Nigerians while promoting sustainability.
“These buses reduce costs for families and contribute to a greener environment. This initiative will roll out thousands of CNG-powered vehicles in the coming years, creating a cost-effective and sustainable transport system nationwide,” Maitakobi said.
He emphasized that with continued investment and collaboration, the Presidential CNG Initiative aims to make CNG the fuel of choice for Nigeria, fostering a cleaner, more affordable, and sustainable transport system for generations to come.
