Tinubu Declares CNG Transportation as Vital for Nigeria’s Economic Progress

President Bola Tinubu has underscored the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) transportation as a critical economic strategy for Nigeria, marking a pivotal shift in the nation’s public transportation and energy policies.

Speaking at the commissioning of 30 hybrid-powered CNG buses at the State House in Abuja on Monday, Tinubu highlighted the pressing need for Nigeria to harness its abundant natural gas resources to power the transportation sector.

“Utilizing natural gas for Nigeria’s transportation industry is the future we must embrace,” Tinubu declared, pointing out that this approach addresses the rising transportation costs burdening many Nigerians.

The President cited global examples, noting that countries like India have mandated the use of CNG for all commercial vehicles since 2004. He emphasized that in Nigeria, commercial vehicles consume about 80% of the nation’s petrol, costing trillions of naira monthly.

“We have the solution right here, and we are committed to implementing it,” Tinubu assured, promising that this transition would improve living conditions and boost prosperity for Nigerians.

He also highlighted the potential of Nigeria’s vast gas reserves to enhance the nation’s energy competitiveness and drive significant changes in the economy.

The newly commissioned hybrid CNG buses, donated by the Depot and Petroleum Product Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), were designed and manufactured by Innoson Motors, a Nigerian automaker based in Anambra State. These buses, capable of carrying up to 100 passengers, are also equipped to run on diesel, providing flexibility in case of CNG shortages.

DAPPMAN Chairman, Winifred Akpani, announced that the association has arranged training programs for drivers and hinted at future donations, reflecting the private sector’s strong support for the CNG initiative.

President Tinubu praised this development as a progressive step forward for Nigeria’s transportation system and commended Innoson Motors and DAPPMAN members for their dedication to “transforming Nigeria’s narrative.”