Follow Us on Google
From Idu Jude, Abuja
To cushion the economic impact of fuel subsidy removal, the federal government has launched and handed over 15 locally manufactured compressed natural gas (CNG) buses to major transport unions.
The buses, manufactured by Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, were handed over to the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) and Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO).
The ceremony, held in Abuja on Thursday, was a major step toward sustainable transportation and affordable mobility for Nigerians.
Speaking at the event, Senator Said Alkali, Minister of Transportation, emphasised the broader significance of the initiative, describing it as a path to innovation, sustainability, and citizen welfare. “This launch is more than just handing over buses; it represents a commitment to building a cleaner, more efficient, and affordable transportation system for all Nigerians,” Alkali said.
He added that the initiative was designed to provide cost-effective alternatives for transport operators and commuters.
“These buses demonstrate our government’s resolve to empower citizens and reduce the economic burden of fuel subsidy removal. By transitioning to compressed natural gas, we are cutting transport costs, reducing carbon emissions, and laying the foundation for a sustainable future,” he said.
The Minister noted that the Ministry of Transportation will work tirelessly to educate transport operators, passengers, and the public about the benefits of the programme, ensuring accessibility and widespread adoption.
Highlighting the importance of resource utilisation, Alkali stated, “For decades, we’ve exported raw materials like gas and crude oil, only to import finished products at a premium. This cycle must end. Nations like Japan, which import our gas, use it to fuel their economies and export vehicles back to us. It’s time Nigerians benefit directly from our resources.”
Also speaking, the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, assured Nigerians of the Petroleum Ministry’s readiness to ensure a steady supply of CNG across the country.
“This is a step toward fulfilling President Tinubu’s promise of leveraging Nigeria’s gas resources to drive local economic growth,” he said.
P-CNG’s Managing Director, Michael Oluwafemi, announced that the initiative has already attracted over $450 million in investments. He revealed plans to expand the program with the rollout of CNG-powered tricycles and train coaches, along with the establishment of over 100 CNG conversion centers nationwide.
Dr. Musa Mohammed Maitakobi, National Chairman of RTEAN, commended the initiative’s potential to improve transportation and reduce environmental impact. “Transportation connects people to opportunities and essential services. These CNG buses will not only lower transportation costs but also contribute to a greener environment by reducing carbon emissions,” he noted.
He pledged the union’s commitment to ensuring the effective deployment of the buses, adding, “This is a call to duty for our drivers and staff. Your dedication will bring this initiative to life and positively impact the lives of countless Nigerians.”
