The FG distributes 64 CNG-powered buses to Trade Unions and NANS, aiming to support eco-friendly transportation across the country.
The Federal Government has transferred 64 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to representatives from the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), and National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
The buses were handed over on Sunday at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, as a highlight of Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary celebrations.
Mr. Wale Edun, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Finance Minister, led the government delegation at the handover ceremony.
The delegation comprised Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation; Sen. Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning; and Mr. Ayodele Olawande, Minister of State for Youth Development.
Edun stated that once these buses are deployed for commuter service, they would substantially lower transportation costs across the country. This initiative brings hope for a more cost-effective and efficient public transport system.
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He explained that the allocation of the buses upholds President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to delivering affordable and efficient transportation for Nigerians, following the removal of fuel subsidies as part of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PCNGi).
He stressed that the initiative was designed to ease the burden on the poor and vulnerable, while also supporting macroeconomic reforms intended to set the country on a course toward economic stability.
The Minister elaborated that the symbolic transfer of 64 buses on the eve of Nigeria’s National Day signified the commencement of a more extensive national implementation.
He mentioned that the Federal Government intends to distribute more than 500 CNG buses and 100 electric vehicles initially.
He further mentioned that the CNG initiative aligns with Nigeria’s dedication to cleaner energy, while simultaneously utilizing its energy resources for industrialization.
“Today marks another critical milestone in President Tinubu’s policies,” said the minister. “This transition to cleaner fuel emphasizes mass transit.”
He mentioned that the Federal Government prioritized supporting workers by ensuring more affordable transport options to help them manage rising prices.
He also pointed out that the CNG initiative had an effect on inflation, stating: “We experienced an initial spike in inflation; now it has peaked and is coming down.”
“The President and the entire team are committed to continuing their efforts to reduce inflation, considering this as one of the key strategies.”
The Coordinating Minister of the Economy highlighted that the fuel expenses for vehicles powered by compressed natural gas (CNG) are approximately one-third lower than those for petrol-powered vehicles.
He mentioned that drivers can now fill their tanks for as little as N15,000 instead of having to spend N50,000 or more.
“Currently, it is focused on CNG. However, in the future, starting from November, it will aid farmers through both wet and dry season planting by providing fertilizers, inputs, seeds, and herbicides.”
“This is all aimed at reducing prices and revitalizing the economy,” he said.
Comrade Nuhu Toro, the Secretary-General and Chief Executive of TUC; Comrade Lucky Emonefe, President of NANS; and Comrade Uche Ekwe, Head of International Desk at NLC, all praised Tinubu for the gesture.
They advocated for increasing the availability of CNG buses to the public.
Toro expressed gratitude to the President for implementing the new national minimum wage of N70,000.
“This action represents a crucial advance in reducing the economic strain on Nigerian workers,” he stated.
Emonefe commended the government for its dedication to education and student welfare, highlighting the establishment of a student loan program for higher education.
Nigerian students are joyfully celebrating the 64th anniversary of their independence.
Emonefe stated, “We are not only pleased with the CNG buses; we also believe that the current President genuinely cares about students’ welfare and has demonstrated his commitment to this.”
The NLC representative highlighted that the advantages of CNG buses would be more evident as additional buses are rolled out nationwide.
“If we acquire more buses, the impact will be felt immediately by Nigerians. As people begin to use these buses, they will spread the word within their communities and neighborhoods,” he said.
Mr. Michael Oluwagbemi, the Programme Director and Chief Executive of PCNGi, stated that since its inception one year ago, over 125 conversion centers have been set up, a significant increase from the original seven.
He mentioned that investment in the sector had surpassed $175 million, with 12 new mother stations already commissioned and an additional 75 currently under construction.
He mentioned that technician training efforts are intensifying, with 40 new technicians being trained each week. Additionally, over 34,000 conversion kits have been ordered and more than half of them have already been distributed.
He mentioned that vehicle conversions were occurring at 53 centers across eight states, and there are plans to expand these centers to all 36 states as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
