The Federal Government has launched 15 CNG-powered buses in a bid to mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal and promote cleaner energy solutions across Nigeria. The initiative is part of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Renewed Hope Clean Energy Transport Scheme.

At the launch of the locally made P-CNG buses in Abuja on Thursday, Minister of Transportation Said Ahmed Alkali highlighted the government’s commitment to empowering citizens and transitioning towards a more sustainable energy economy. The buses were handed over to the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), and the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO).

Alkali emphasized the importance of effective sensitization campaigns for transport owners, operators, passengers, and the general public to ensure accessibility and the success of the initiative. He also assured that the union operators would be responsible for the maintenance and proper use of the buses, with a long-term vision for a transportation system that will benefit future generations.

“This is not just about today, but about creating a transportation system that will serve generations to come,” Alkali said, calling on Nigerians to embrace the initiative and support the government’s efforts to move the nation forward.

The launch was described as a “pilot scheme” in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with plans to expand the project to other states across the country. Addressing concerns about maintenance, Alkali acknowledged its critical role in the project’s success, with the three transport unions overseeing the upkeep of the buses to ensure sustainability.