In a significant move to enhance public transportation in Nigeria, 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). The ceremony took place on Sunday at the State House Conference Centre, coinciding with Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary.

The initiative is designed to lower transportation costs for commuters and improve the efficiency of public transport. Wale Edun, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, emphasized that the distribution of the buses fulfills President Bola Tinubu’s promise to make transportation more affordable, especially following the removal of fuel subsidies.

“This initiative aims to alleviate the burden on the poor and vulnerable while supporting macroeconomic reforms,” Edun stated. He highlighted that the distribution is just the beginning of a broader plan to roll out over 500 CNG buses and 100 electric vehicles in the coming months.

Edun pointed out that CNG fuel costs significantly less than petrol, allowing motorists to fill their tanks for approximately N15,000 compared to N50,000 or more for traditional fuel. He noted that this transition not only aims to improve public transport but also aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to cleaner energy and industrialization.

During the handover, union leaders expressed gratitude for the government’s efforts. TUC Secretary-General Nuhu Toro commended the move as a vital step in alleviating economic challenges faced by workers, particularly following the implementation of the N70,000 new national minimum wage.

NANS President Lucky Emonefe praised the initiative, noting its potential to positively impact student welfare. He also expressed appreciation for the government’s commitment to education, particularly through the introduction of a student loan scheme.

As the CNG initiative gains momentum, the benefits are expected to increase with the deployment of more buses across the country. Representatives from the NLC highlighted that the immediate effects of these buses will be felt by the public once they are operational.

Michael Oluwagbemi, Programme Director/Chief Executive of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PCNGi), reported that the project has led to the establishment of over 125 conversion centres nationwide and has attracted over $175 million in investments. He also mentioned the ongoing training of technicians and the expansion of vehicle conversion capabilities to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

This initiative marks a pivotal development in Nigeria’s transportation sector, showcasing the government’s dedication to improving public services while fostering economic growth.