ABUJA, Nigeria — In celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary, the Federal Government has launched 64 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses as part of a broader effort to provide affordable and environmentally friendly public transportation.

The unveiling ceremony, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, was led by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, alongside key government officials.

According to a statement released on Monday, September 30, 2024, by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, the event was attended by 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, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom.

Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun test drives one of the buses at the event at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. | State House Photo

The initiative marks the first phase of a larger plan to distribute over 500 CNG and 100 electric buses nationwide, benefiting labour and student unions to improve Nigeria’s public transport system.

Speaking at the event, Mr Edun emphasised that the rollout aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promise to support the nation’s most vulnerable citizens amid recent economic reforms.

He highlighted the cost-saving potential of CNG-powered vehicles, noting that fuel costs are up to 70% lower compared to 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 Compressed Natural Gas,” Edun explained.

This move, he said, will help curb inflation and improve the quality of life for citizens while promoting cleaner energy and sustainable economic growth.