In a move to reduce transportation costs and promote sustainable mobility, the Nigerian government, through the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi), is set to distribute 2,000 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered tricycles to young people in the transportation sector. The distribution will commence on October 1st, 2024, in Abuja at the Old Parade Ground, Area 11, Garki, at 1:00 PM.
This initiative is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader strategy to improve the transportation sector by introducing cleaner, more affordable energy alternatives. By utilizing CNG-powered vehicles, the government aims to provide Nigerian youth with viable livelihood opportunities while contributing to environmental sustainability and addressing the rising costs of transportation across the country.
Addressing Transportation Challenges
With the high costs of transportation affecting millions of Nigerians, this initiative is designed to alleviate some of the financial burdens placed on commuters and transport operators. The CNG-powered tricycles offer a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petrol or diesel-powered vehicles, helping to reduce both fuel expenses and harmful emissions.
By distributing these tricycles to informal youth workers in the transportation sector, the government aims to empower the younger population and provide them with the tools to build sustainable businesses. The initiative, which is being executed in collaboration with the Ministry of Youths, is part of a wider strategy to foster job creation while driving down transportation costs across Nigeria.
Related Story: Nigerian Govt. Expands CNG Conversion Program to Eight States, Plans Further Rollout
Expanding the Use of CNG in Nigeria
Beyond tricycle distribution, PCNGi has been actively working to expand the use of compressed natural gas in the country’s transportation system. Recently, the organization signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to convert vehicles operating on the Abuja-Itakpe Station to Adavi route to CNG, with the aim of reducing transport fares by 30-40%. This is expected to provide immediate financial relief to passengers using this route.
Additionally, PCNGi will sign an agreement with the Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF) to train police cadets in managing CNG conversion centers. This partnership will play a critical role in operationalizing the Nigerian Police CNG Conversion Programme, which will ensure more vehicles are converted to CNG in the coming years.
Expanding CNG Conversion Programmes to States
Following the Abuja launch, the CNG initiative will expand to Kogi and Ekiti states. In Kogi, the government will hand over CNG-powered buses to the state’s mass transit system and inaugurate three CNG conversion centers. In Ekiti, four additional CNG conversion sites will be established as part of the government’s commitment to spreading this cleaner fuel technology nationwide.
This ambitious initiative underscores the Nigerian government’s commitment to economic development through sustainable and affordable transport solutions. As the rollout of CNG-powered vehicles continues, the hope is that Nigeria’s transportation sector will not only become more affordable but also environmentally sustainable, creating long-term benefits for both the economy and the environment.
