The Enugu State Government is set to introduce Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses as part of its commitment to environmental preservation and providing affordable transportation for its citizens.
This move is expected to significantly reduce transportation costs and contribute to a cleaner environment in the state.
In addition to this, the state government has established a new Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to oversee and encourage investment in the energy and mineral sectors.
This decision was announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, and the Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Obi Ozor, following the recent State Executive Council meeting.
“Considering the level of mineral resources available in Enugu State, the government has decided to create this Ministry. Its mandate includes overseeing investment opportunities in the solid mineral space and catalyzing investments in the energy sector,” Prof. Onyia stated.
He further highlighted that the establishment of the new Ministry aligns with the Enugu State Electricity Law, which necessitates the creation of an independent regulatory body for the energy sector.
Dr. Obi Ozor revealed that the state’s introduction of CNG buses is complemented by the development of supporting infrastructure to ensure smooth operations and commuter safety.
“The Executive Council resolved that it is very important for the state and its citizens to begin transitioning from petrol to CNG, which saves about half of the fuel costs in transportation. This will reduce transportation costs for our people,” Dr. Ozor explained.
The Commissioner emphasized that the state government is not only investing in CNG buses but is also supporting private sector investment in the transportation sector to build a more sustainable and affordable system.
“We are committed to creating an enabling environment to attract the right investors within the CNG space, and we have already achieved this with our partnership with Greenville Energy,” he added.
As part of the broader infrastructure plan, Dr. Ozor announced that a massive CNG mother station is currently under construction at Ugwu Onyeama, which will have the capacity to serve the entire South East region. “Construction of ancillary daughter stations, resembling filling stations, will commence in a matter of weeks,” he noted.
The government’s initiatives are designed to promote a sustainable transportation system that incorporates modern features, such as bus terminals, improved shelters, and technological enhancements to ensure passenger safety.
“The infrastructure that is underway, including the Internet of Things and advanced tracking devices in these buses, will allow us to monitor the movement of citizens and ensure their safety,” Dr. Ozor concluded.
This ambitious move demonstrates Enugu State’s commitment to environmental sustainability, economic growth, and a more efficient transportation system for its residents.
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