President Bola Tinubu has highlighted the impact of the Federal Government’s investment in compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric-powered transportation, citing reports of reduced fares and lower operating costs for transport operators.
In a message addressed to beneficiaries of the initiative, Tinubu referenced the experiences of commuters and transport operators who reported significant savings following the adoption of alternative-energy vehicles.
The President cited the case of Blessing, whose journey from Masaka to Berger in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) now costs ₦500, down from ₦1,500, representing a saving of ₦1,000 per trip.
He also referenced Ada and Abigail, who reportedly now pay ₦1,600 to travel from Enugu to Nsukka, compared with the previous fare of ₦4,000, saving ₦2,400 on each journey.
Tinubu further highlighted the experience of Kabir, a taxi driver who said ₦10,000 worth of CNG enables him to make three additional return trips compared with drivers using petrol.
The President also cited feedback from Borno State, where some commuters reportedly pay as little as ₦50 per trip using CNG-powered and electric vehicles.
According to Tinubu, the experiences demonstrate the objective of the government’s investment in alternative-energy transportation: reducing operating costs for transport operators, lowering fares for passengers and easing the financial burden on households.
He acknowledged that the removal of the petrol subsidy had imposed significant hardship on Nigerians but said the government had a responsibility to provide practical alternatives to reduce transportation costs.
“Your stories show this is already happening, and I want more Nigerians to experience these benefits,” he said.
Responding to a request from a commuter identified as Emmanuel for more buses, Tinubu said the government was working with state governments through the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and private investors to expand affordable transportation services under the National Affordable CNG Transportation Programme.
He disclosed that Ekiti State had received 15 buses, Lagos State 20, while Akwa Ibom State had 50 buses ready for service.
The President added that Katsina State had introduced 30 CNG hybrid buses and 200 electric tricycles, while Kano State had received 30 CNG buses and five electric buses. He also announced plans for another rollout in Edo State.
Tinubu further stated that 100 CNG buses deployed in Kaduna State had transported more than three million passengers to date.
On vehicle conversion, he said more than 400 certified centres had converted over 120,000 vehicles to CNG, adding that the government was expanding refuelling infrastructure to improve access to the alternative fuel.
The President also outlined measures aimed at cushioning the impact of rising petrol prices, including the waiver of more than ₦3.3 trillion in fuel taxes and duties.
He said NNPC Retail was foregoing its profit margin for 30 days, with priority given to public transport operators, while the government was working towards a ₦1,350-per-litre ceiling on wholesale petrol supply costs to reduce price volatility.
“These measures are intended to ease the immediate burden while we continue expanding affordable transportation alternatives,” Tinubu said.
The President maintained that government policies must provide immediate relief without compromising long-term economic sustainability.
He also challenged those seeking political office to explain how they intended to fund and sustain their campaign promises, warning that commitments without credible funding plans could leave future generations bearing the costs.
Tinubu said the government would continue expanding affordable transportation services to reach more communities across the country.
