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The Federal Government of Nigeria has again reiterated efforts to provide affordable transportation means to the Nigerian masses to cushion the effects of economic hardship orchestrated by the removal of fuel subsidies.
The Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alikali, remarked on Thursday during the official launch and handover of locally made P-CNG buses to the organised commercial transport unions, including NARTO, RETEAN, and NURTW.
Senator Alikali said that the occasion should be seen beyond the launch of CNG buses and their handover to the leadership of operating unions but should be seen as a way of creating a new path that prioritises innovation, sustainability, and, most importantly, the well-being of every Nigerian.
“Let me also congratulate the Presidential Committee on CNG Initiative for driving the process to this level of formal launch of the CNG-powered buses for operation within the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
“I regard it as an honour to stand before you on this remarkable occasion to celebrate a significant milestone in transforming Nigeria’s transportation sector, alleviating economic burdens, and building a cleaner, more prosperous future for all through the provision of an affordable transportation system.”
While acting in a collaborative capacity in compliance with Mr. President’s directives, the Minister noted that the Federal Ministry of Transportation will continue to support this laudable initiative to make the actualisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda a reality.
He said, in the same vein, the Ministry will ensure effective sensitisation of the transport owners, operators, passengers, and the general public to make the initiative accessible to Nigerians. This, the Minister detailed, will no doubt make the initiative popular, acceptable, and reliable to enhance the welfare of Nigerians, which the President is passionate about providing in compliance with the constitutional directive to uphold the primary purpose of government.
Senator Alikali further stated, “This launch ceremony will witness the handover of 15 CNG-powered buses to NURTW, RTEAN, and NARTO as part of the President’s Renewed Hope Clean Energy Transport Scheme, a strategic initiative designed to ease the burden of fuel subsidy removal, which will ensure that Nigerians, particularly those in the transportation sector, can access cleaner, more affordable energy solutions that reduce transport costs for operators and commuters alike.
“These buses symbolise the government’s commitment to empowering citizens while transitioning to a cleaner energy economy. They also allow us to monitor and ensure the safety and efficiency of the transportation sector, ultimately benefiting all Nigerians.
“The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative is a bold statement of Nigeria’s intent to take control of its resources and utilise them for the benefit of its people. We have been exporting our raw materials for decades only to import finished goods at a premium. We exported crude oil and imported refined petroleum; we exported palm oil, cocoa, and rubber and imported soap, chocolate, and tyres. The time has come to break this cycle.”
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Meanwhile, the Transport Minister has informed that President Tinubu has made it clear that Nigeria will not continue to export gas, only to import products like fertilisers or other derivatives. He said, “Instead, we will harness our gas to power our economy. Nations like Japan, which import our gas, have demonstrated its transformative potential. They use gas to drive their transportation sector, reduce their reliance on petrol, and export vehicles like Toyota, Nissan, and Mitsubishi to countries like ours. Why shouldn’t Nigerians benefit from the resources beneath our soil?
“I am glad to state that by transitioning to compressed natural gas, we are cutting down on carbon emissions, reducing the cost of fuel for transportation operators, and enabling the growth of a cleaner and more efficient transportation system,” he said.
The Minister of State, Petroleum (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, while speaking during the launch, expressed the Petroleum Ministry’s readiness to ensure the availability of CNG products nationwide to encourage the operation.
The Minister of State informed that efforts are being made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to keep his campaign promises of removal.
The Managing Director, CEO of P-CNG, Eng. Michael Oluwafemi, said during the ceremony in Abuja that the CNG programme has attracted over $450 million, culminating in the value chain. He added that more of the buses will soon be pushed out of Nigerian roads to fulfil the dream of the present administration.
He said, in all, and to fulfil the presidential mandate, that the P-CNG will soon add tricycles and train coaches to the CNG mass transport programme, in addition to over 100 CNG conversion centres across the country.
Speaking also, the National Chairman of RTEAN, Dr. Musa Mohammed Maitakobi, observed that transportation is the backbone of any economy, connecting people to opportunities, services, and essential resources.
He, however, submitted that poor transportation systems in Nigeria have made many Nigerians face difficulties, with the rising costs of fares impacting their daily lives and limiting their access to work, education, and healthcare.
“These CNG buses will provide free transportation to individuals in need, creating a ripple effect of positivity throughout our communities. We will not only be easing the financial strain on families but will also be contributing to a greener and more sustainable environment. CNG is a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, and by utilising these buses, we are playing our part in reducing our carbon footprint.
“We express our heartfelt appreciation for entrusting us with this responsibility. We are fully committed to ensuring that these buses are deployed efficiently and effectively. We will work tirelessly to create accessible routes and schedules so that our services reach those who need them most. Together, we will ensure that this initiative is a success and that it honours the intent behind it.
“To our drivers and staff, this is a call to duty. You will be the face of this initiative, and your dedication and compassion will make a difference in the lives of countless citizens. As we embark on this journey, let us encourage one another, assist those in need, and uphold the values of integrity, respect, and service that define our organisation.”
The P-CNG programme also targets clean energy to fight climate change through the United Nations Environment Initiative.
