President Bola Tinubu has launched 30 hybrid-powered Compressed Natural Gas buses donated by Depots and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria at the State House in Abuja.
Speaking during the inauguration of the CNG buses on Monday, Tinubu emphasised the urgent need for Nigeria to utilise its vast natural gas resources in the transportation sector.
The President stated that CNG transportation is an economic necessity for Nigeria, signalling a significant shift in the country’s approach to public transportation and energy use.
“Utilising natural gas to power Nigeria’s transportation industry is the next way to go,” he stated.
Tinubu also highlighted CNG as a solution to the recent challenges of high transportation costs faced by many Nigerians.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Ajuri Ngelelae, the President drew attention to international precedents, noting that countries like India have mandated CNG for all commercial vehicles since 2004.
Tinubu pointed out that in Nigeria, commercial vehicles account for about 80% of the country’s petrol demand, costing trillions of naira each month.
“The solution is here, we have it, and we will work on it,” Tinubu assured, promising that this shift would lead to better conditions and increased prosperity for Nigerians.
He stressed that leveraging Nigeria’s abundant gas deposits could enhance the nation’s energy competitiveness and bring about transformative changes.
The hybrid CNG buses were designed and manufactured by Innoson Motors, a Nigerian automobile company based in Anambra State.
Each bus can transport up to 100 people and has the flexibility to run on diesel if needed, addressing potential CNG shortage concerns.
DAPPMAN Chairman, Winifred Akpani, revealed that the association has made provisions to train drivers and hinted at more donations in subsequent phases, underlining the private sector’s commitment to the CNG initiative.
Tinubu lauded this development as a promising and progressive lift to the Nigerian transportation system.
He also commended Innoson Motors and other DAPPMAN members for their commitment to “changing the narratives in Nigeria.”