The Federal Government has commissioned 15 luxurious compressed natural gas (CNG) buses to three major transport unions: the Nigeria Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN). Each union received five buses to improve access to affordable and eco-friendly transportation.
During the launch, Minister of Transportation, Sen. Sa’idu Alkali described the initiative as a milestone in transforming Nigeria’s transportation sector. “This marks a new path prioritising innovation, sustainability and the well-being of Nigerians,” he stated. Alkali emphasised that the buses symbolise the government’s commitment to alleviating economic burdens, reducing carbon emissions and building a cleaner future.
Alkali pledged the ministry’s support in sensitising transport operators and passengers to ensure the scheme’s success. He further explained that the Presidential Clean Energy Transport Scheme was strategically designed to ease the impact of fuel subsidy removal by providing cleaner, more affordable energy solutions for operators and commuters.
Highlighting Nigeria’s untapped potential, Alkali noted, “Countries like Japan use our gas to power their economies, yet export vehicles like Toyota and Nissan to us. Why can’t Nigerians benefit directly from the resources beneath our soil?” He added that transitioning to CNG will reduce carbon emissions, lower fuel costs and support sustainable economic growth.
The minister urged the unions to ensure the buses are well-maintained for long-term benefits, stating, “These vehicles are tools for change, meant to serve future generations by creating a sustainable transportation system.”
40 Days of Free Transportation
Programme director of the Presidential CNG Initiative, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi announced that Nigerians would enjoy 40 days of free transportation with the new buses, followed by discounted rates. He revealed plans to deploy thousands more CNG buses nationwide, complementing the government’s broader transportation strategy, including transit routes and rail systems.
Oluwagbemi also highlighted progress in Nigeria’s CNG sector, including the establishment of over 150 vehicle conversion centers, up from seven a year ago and the training of over 1,000 technicians. He noted that the number of operational CNG vehicles in Nigeria is projected to increase from 4,000 to 50,000 by year-end.
“We’ve attracted $450 million in investments into the CNG sector, established 50 CNG water stations and are developing 85 more. This initiative is just the first step in a transformative journey toward a cleaner, more efficient transportation system,” he said.
Transport Unions Express Gratitude
Speaking on behalf of RTEAN, NARTO, and NURTW, Dr. Musa Maitakobi praised the Federal Government for addressing transportation challenges. He noted that rising transportation costs have limited access to essential services and the CNG buses will provide much-needed relief.
“These buses offer free transportation to individuals in need while contributing to a greener environment. By utilising CNG, we reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainability,” he said. Maitakobi assured the unions’ commitment to deploying the buses effectively, creating accessible routes and ensuring they reach those who need them most.
The initiative reflects the government’s dedication to empowering citizens and advancing Nigeria’s clean energy goals, reinforcing its commitment to a sustainable and inclusive transportation system.
