The Presidency has announced plans to launch approximately 2,700 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and tricycles before May 29, coinciding with President Bola Tinubu’s one-year anniversary in office. This initiative is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to promote cleaner and more sustainable transportation solutions across Nigeria.
According to Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the government aims to establish 100 conversion workshops and 60 refuelling sites in 18 states by the end of 2024. The implementation of these measures underscores Nigeria’s commitment to embracing environmentally friendly energy alternatives.
Onanuga highlighted that the Presidential CNG Initiative, launched in October 2023, aims to deliver cheaper and safer energy options, particularly for mass transit. With an allocated budget of N100 billion, the initiative seeks to purchase 5,500 CNG vehicles, including buses and tricycles, as well as electric buses and conversion kits.
The Federal Government has partnered with various private sector entities to facilitate the rollout of the initiative. Notable collaborations include the involvement of JET, Mikano, Mojo, and Brilliant EV in the assembly of semi-knocked-down components of CNG buses and tricycles. Additionally, companies like NIPCO and BOVAS are setting up refuelling stations and conversion centres nationwide.
To ensure safety and reliability, stringent standards and regulations have been developed for CNG conversions. The government also plans to offer subsidised conversion kits to facilitate the transition of petrol-powered vehicles to CNG.
Furthermore, the Presidential CNG Initiative will launch the MYCNG.NG App to monitor CNG conversion and refuelling sites across the country. This digital platform aims to enhance accessibility and transparency in the adoption of natural gas vehicles.
The successful implementation of the CNG initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for sustainable energy transition in Nigeria’s transportation sector. With significant private sector investment and government support, the initiative is poised to transform Nigeria’s automotive landscape and promote cleaner and greener mobility options.
