Kehinde Fajobi
The federal government has handed over 15 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), and the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO).
This initiative, part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Clean Energy Transport Scheme, aims to ease the impact of the fuel subsidy removal while offering Nigerians cleaner, more affordable energy solutions.
Speaking at the bus launch and handover ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Alkali, highlighted that the scheme would lower transport costs for both operators and commuters.
“These buses symbolise the government’s commitment to empowering citizens while transitioning to a cleaner energy economy,” Alkali said.
“They also allow us to monitor and ensure the safety and efficiency of the transportation sector, ultimately benefiting all Nigerians.”
He emphasised that the shift to CNG would reduce carbon emissions, cut fuel costs for transport operators, and promote the growth of a more sustainable transportation system.
Sen. Alkali called on the unions to ensure the buses are used effectively and properly maintained. He also urged Nigerians to support the initiative.
“This is not just about today but about creating a transportation system that will serve generations to come,” he said.
“We must work together to ensure that our resources are used to our advantage, creating a Nigeria where opportunities abound and innovation thrives.”
The Ministry, he added, would focus on sensitising transport owners, operators, and the public to make the initiative more accessible.
Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, Programme Director of the Presidential CNG Initiative, announced that FCT residents would enjoy 40 days of free rides on the new buses.
“This initiative is safer, more reliable, and available,” Oluwagbemi said. “For the next 40 days, people will enjoy free transportation, and after that, they will benefit from discounts.”
He further mentioned that more buses would be introduced in the coming months.
Dr. Musa Mohammed, National President of RTEAN, lauded the government’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.
“Transportation is the backbone of any economy,” he said. “These CNG buses will provide free transportation and contribute to a greener, more sustainable environment. CNG is a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, and by using these buses, we are reducing our carbon footprint.”