The Federal Government has handed over 15 Compressed Natural Gas buses to the National Union of Road Transport Workers , the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners.
The initiative, part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Clean Energy Transport Scheme, aims to mitigate the effects of fuel subsidy removal while promoting cleaner and more affordable energy solutions for Nigerians.
Speaking at the official launch and handover ceremony of the Renewed Hope Transportation Scheme on Thursday in Abuja, the Minister of Transportation, Said Alkali, highlighted the government’s commitment to a sustainable and affordable transportation system.
“These buses symbolize our dedication to empowering citizens while transitioning to a cleaner energy economy. By adopting compressed natural gas, we are cutting emissions, lowering transport costs for operators, and building a greener and more efficient system,” Alkali said.
He urged transport unions to ensure proper use and maintenance of the buses while calling on Nigerians to embrace the initiative as a step toward creating a sustainable future.
“This is about building a system that benefits generations to come. Let us work together to maximize our resources and build a Nigeria where opportunities thrive,” he added.
The Minister also assured that the government would embark on sensitization campaigns to create awareness and ensure the scheme’s accessibility to transport operators and the public.
The Programme Director of the Presidential CNG Initiative, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, announced that residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) would enjoy 40 days of free rides on the buses as part of the initiative’s rollout. After the free period, discounted rates would apply to make transportation more affordable.
“This initiative is not only safer and more reliable but also accessible to all Nigerians. More buses will be deployed in the coming months to expand the program’s reach,” Oluwagbemi said.
Dr. Musa Mohammed, National President of RTEAN, commended President Tinubu for his commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians amid economic challenges.
“These CNG buses will ease the financial burden of transportation on families while contributing to environmental sustainability. They demonstrate the government’s focus on supporting citizens and fostering a greener future,” he said.
The initiative, which aligns with the President’s vision of cleaner energy and inclusive growth, is expected to enhance the welfare of Nigerians and reduce the transportation sector’s carbon footprint.
