In celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary, the Federal Government has launched 64 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, demonstrating its commitment to providing affordable and environmentally friendly transportation for citizens.
This unveiling, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, was led by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.
Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga in a statement in a statement indicated that the event was attended by key government officials, including the Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idris Malagi, and Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande Wisdom.
The launch marks the first phase of a larger initiative to distribute over 500 CNG and 100 electric buses to labour and student unions across the country, aimed at improving public transport nationwide the statement explained.
Edun in his speech highlighted that the initiative is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promise to support Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens amidst recent macroeconomic reforms.
“The unveiling of these 64 buses is a symbolic gesture in honour of our nation’s 64th Independence Anniversary, but it represents just the beginning. Hundreds more buses are on order, with deliveries continuing,” Edun stated.
He emphasized that the move is central to Nigeria’s strategy of transitioning to cleaner, more affordable energy, particularly in the mass transit sector. CNG-powered vehicles offer significant savings, with fuelling costs up to 70% lower than those of petrol-powered vehicles.
“A CNG vehicle costs about one-third of what it takes to fuel a petrol vehicle. Instead of spending 50,000 Naira to fill a tank, Nigerians will pay around 15,000 Naira with CNG. This is a substantial step towards lowering the cost of living, curbing inflation, and improving the quality of life for Nigerians,” Edun explained.
The statement indicated that the rollout of the CNG buses was not only aimed st reducing public transportation costs but also is in tandem with Nigeria’s efforts to combat climate change, promote cleaner energy, and foster sustainable economic growth.