CNG transport fares are becoming a major focus for several Nigerian states as governments expand the use of Compressed Natural Gas buses and other alternative-energy vehicles to reduce transportation costs for residents.
The development follows President Bola Tinubu’s directive to state governments to accelerate the National Affordable CNG Transit Programme and ensure that more Nigerians begin to experience lower transport fares from October 1.
According to the Presidency, an implementation committee established under the Nigeria Governors’ Forum is working with states and other stakeholders to identify priority routes and expand cheaper transport options.
States including Edo, Kano, Delta, Kwara, Lagos and Akwa Ibom are among those expanding CNG-supported transport services. Kano, for instance, has converted more than 1,000 commercial vehicles, while Edo currently has 50 CNG buses in active service. Akwa Ibom has also taken delivery of 50 CNG buses ahead of commercial operations.
CNG Transport Fares Drop on Some Routes
The reduction in CNG transport fares is expected to provide some relief for commuters facing rising transportation costs.
The Federal Government says some states are already recording reductions in transport costs following the introduction of CNG and electric-powered services.
In Oyo, Pacesetter Transport deployed CNG buses on the Lagos-Ibadan route, reducing the fare from about ₦8,000 to ₦3,200. In Enugu, the Enugu-Nsukka fare fell from ₦2,500 to ₦1,500 following the deployment of 100 CNG buses.
Abuja commuters are also among those benefiting from CNG-converted commercial vehicles. The Presidency said fares on some routes have fallen by about 40 per cent. The Area 1 to Gwagwalada fare dropped from ₦1,500 to ₦900. Nyanya fares fell from ₦700 to ₦420, while Wuse fares dropped from ₦400 to ₦240.
State governments are now under pressure to expand the programme and ensure that CNG transport fares remain affordable for commuters.
However, challenges remain. Transport operators in some states have raised concerns about limited refuelling infrastructure. They have also cited high conversion costs and long queues at existing CNG stations.
With October 1 approaching, state governments are expected to work with transport unions and operators. The goal is to expand CNG services and ensure that lower energy costs translate into cheaper fares for commuters.