The federal government has reiterated its commitment to addressing the transport challenges faced by citizens following the removal of the petrol subsidy. The government has acknowledged the significant impact of rising fuel costs on mobility, which has placed an additional financial burden on Nigerians, particularly commuters and transport operators. As a response to this challenge, the federal government has prioritized finding alternative solutions to alleviate the pressures on the transport sector. In this light, a major initiative has been launched to promote the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cleaner, more affordable alternative to petrol-powered vehicles. At the launch of the Renewed Hope Transport Scheme, the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, revealed that 16 CNG-powered buses would be distributed to transport unions in Abuja as part of the government's effort to ease the transportation crisis caused by rising fuel prices. The announcement came as part of a broader effort to encourage the use of more sustainable fuels in the country’s transportation system. The buses were allocated to the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), and the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO).
Ekperikpe Ekpo[/figure]
Ekpo explained that the distribution of CNG buses was part of the government’s ongoing efforts to promote the adoption of CNG vehicles, underscoring the long-term benefits of switching to cleaner and more affordable fuel alternatives. He highlighted that the use of CNG-powered buses would not only help reduce emissions but also reduce the financial strain on transport operators and passengers. “I am pleased to reaffirm the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the transportation challenges faced by our citizens and transport operators,” Ekpo said. “This initiative, led by the Presidential CNG Initiative in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Transportation, aims to promote Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cleaner and more affordable fuel alternative.”
The Minister further emphasized that the government views this initiative as more than just the distribution of vehicles—it is seen as a significant investment in modern, eco-friendly transportation solutions that align with Nigeria's environmental and economic objectives. Ekpo stressed that the buses are an important symbol of the federal government’s unwavering dedication to easing the burden on Nigerian commuters and transport operators who have faced increasing challenges due to the hike in fuel prices. These buses, according to Ekpo, represent a commitment to sustainable development and improved quality of life for the citizens. He further stated that addressing transportation challenges is crucial to ensuring that the country’s economy continues to thrive. "These buses are not just vehicles—they represent a significant investment in modern, eco-friendly transportation and demonstrate the unwavering commitment of the Federal Government to easing the burden on Nigerian commuters and transport operators,” Ekpo said.
The Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas) also noted that the transport sector plays a pivotal role in the economic development of Nigeria, providing essential services to millions of citizens across the country. As such, the government is fully committed to ensuring the sector remains resilient and adaptable, even in the face of rising costs. The government has also acknowledged the challenges faced by transport unions and operators in maintaining affordable fares and adequate services amidst rising fuel costs. To combat this, Ekpo assured that the government would continue to seek innovative solutions, including the promotion of CNG as a viable and cost-effective fuel source for public transportation.
“As we all know, the transportation sector is essential to Nigeria’s economy, providing vital services to millions. Unfortunately, rising fuel costs have made mobility increasingly expensive, and we must address this challenge to ensure that the transport sector remains affordable and efficient. To address this, the Federal Government has prioritized CNG, which is a cleaner and more cost-effective fuel source. This is a key part of our Decade of Gas initiative, which leverages Nigeria’s abundant natural gas reserves to support sustainable development, energy security, and economic growth,” Ekpo added.
