Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government has launched a free Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus service in Abuja, aiming to alleviate the burden of high transportation costs for residents of the capital city.
The initiative, which began operations on December 2, 2024, was announced via a video shared by the Presidential CNG Initiative on its social media platforms. The buses are set to operate along key routes connecting Abuja suburbs such as Mararaba to Eagle Square and Berger bus stop.
As part of the program, the government has declared that passengers can ride the buses at no cost for the next 40 days, with the free service scheduled to end on January 6, 2025.
Government’s Commitment to Affordable Transportation
The launch follows the handover of 15 CNG-powered buses by the Ministry of Transportation last week to three prominent transport unions:
- National Road Transport Workers Union (NURTW)
- Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO)
- Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN)
The gesture underscores the government’s commitment to reducing transportation expenses, particularly in urban centers grappling with economic challenges.
Commuters React Positively
Abuja residents who have utilized the service expressed gratitude for the initiative, which they believe offers relief from the rising costs of daily commuting.
Fatima, a commuter traveling to Mararaba, praised the program, saying:
“I just boarded a CNG bus going to Mararaba, and we were asked not to pay. I hope it will continue for long. This is the beginning of good things for Nigerians.”
Similarly, Blessing, another commuter, remarked:
“If they’re doing like this, we’ll be happy. After this, they should bring down the transport prices permanently.”
A Step Towards Sustainability
Compressed Natural Gas is a cleaner and more sustainable fuel alternative, reflecting the government’s broader push toward eco-friendly solutions in public transportation. By integrating CNG-powered buses into its transit system, the administration also signals its intent to modernize Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure while reducing environmental impact.
The success of this initiative could pave the way for expanded services across the country, offering both economic and environmental benefits to Nigerians.
