FG Unveils 64 CNG Buses to Ease Transport Costs

The Federal Government has officially handed over 64 compressed natural gas (CNG) buses to representatives from the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

This event took place on Sunday at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, coinciding with Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary celebrations.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), stated that the deployment of these buses for public transportation will significantly lower commuting costs across the country, offering hope for a more affordable and efficient public transport system.

The government delegation was led by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and included the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu; and the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande.

During the event, Edun highlighted that the bus distribution fulfills President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to enhancing affordable and efficient transportation options for Nigerians, especially following the removal of fuel subsidies through the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PCNGi). He emphasized that this initiative aims to ease the financial burden on the poor and vulnerable populations while supporting macroeconomic reforms to stabilize the economy.

The Minister also noted that the handover of the 64 buses marks the commencement of a larger national rollout, with plans to distribute over 500 CNG buses and 100 electric vehicles as a first step. This initiative is part of Nigeria’s commitment to cleaner energy while utilizing its energy resources for industrial growth.

Edun stated, “Today marks a significant milestone in President Tinubu’s policies. It represents a transition to cleaner fuel for the benefit of Nigerians, with a focus on mass transit. We aim to provide cheaper transport options for workers to help them cope with rising prices.”

He further discussed the CNG initiative’s potential to influence inflation trends, stating, “Although we saw an initial spike in inflation, it has since peaked and is now declining. The President and our entire team are committed to reducing inflation, and this initiative is a key part of our strategy.”

The Coordinating Minister pointed out that the fuel costs for CNG-powered vehicles are approximately one-third of those for petrol-powered vehicles, allowing motorists to fill a tank for as low as N15,000 instead of N50,000 or more.

“Today, we focus on CNG, but tomorrow, we will also support farmers as they prepare for the wet and dry planting seasons, starting in November, by providing fertilizer, seeds, and herbicides. This is all part of our efforts to lower prices and revitalize the economy,” he added.