CNG Transportation Cuts Fares and Eases Financial Strain for Nigerians

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced that investments in compressed natural gas (CNG) transportation are helping to lower travel costs for Nigerians. This comes as petrol prices continue to rise. Tinubu shared this information on his X platform, mentioning feedback from commuters and drivers who have switched to CNG-powered and electric vehicles.

One commuter, Blessing, shared that her fare from Masaka to Berger in the Federal Capital Territory dropped from ₦1,500 to ₦500, saving her ₦1,000 per trip. Other commuters, Ada and Abigail, reported a fare reduction from ₦4,000 to ₦1,600 for their journey from Enugu to Nsukka, saving ₦2,400. A taxi driver named Kabir noted that using CNG allowed him to make three additional return trips compared to those using petrol.

Tinubu also mentioned positive reports from Borno State, where some commuters are paying as low as ₦50 per trip on CNG-powered and electric vehicles. He emphasized that lower costs for drivers should lead to more affordable fares for passengers, giving families more money for daily expenses.

Despite the challenges posed by the removal of the petrol subsidy, Tinubu stated that his administration is committed to providing practical alternatives to ease transportation costs. The government is collaborating with state governments and private investors to expand affordable transport services through the National Affordable CNG Transportation Programme.

In response to requests for more buses, Tinubu revealed that several states have received new vehicles. Ekiti State got 15 buses, Lagos received 20, and Akwa Ibom has 50 buses ready for service. Katsina introduced 30 CNG hybrid buses and 200 electric tricycles, while Kano received 30 CNG buses and five electric buses.

Tinubu also outlined measures to help households and businesses cope with rising petrol prices. The government has waived over ₦3.3 trillion in fuel taxes and duties. Additionally, NNPC Retail is temporarily giving up its profit margin for 30 days, focusing on public transport operators. The government aims to cap wholesale petrol supply costs at ₦1,350 per litre to help stabilize prices.