Nigerian states deploy CNG buses to reduce transport fares

Several Nigerian states, including Lagos, Kwara, Ekiti, Plateau, and Enugu, are implementing measures to lower transportation costs through the deployment of compressed natural gas (CNG) and government-subsidized buses. These actions follow a directive from President Bola Tinubu for state governments to accelerate the National Affordable CNG Transit Programme to ensure measurable fare reductions by October 1.

Implementation remains uneven across the country. While Kwara, Ekiti, Plateau, and Enugu have expanded subsidized services, Lagos has received additional CNG buses but has not yet launched a new fare-reduction scheme. Challenges such as infrastructure gaps, fleet availability, and high conversion costs have hindered progress. Additionally, some commercial operators continue to resist fare cuts, citing rising petrol prices and maintenance expenses.

In a related development, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged the Tinubu administration to consider reducing fuel taxes, citing recent actions taken in Germany.