The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi) today launched its Transport Fare Drop Programme aimed at reducing transportation costs across Nigeria, starting with Abuja. The programme is part of a broader effort to promote the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cleaner, more affordable fuel alternative.
To kick-start this initiative, representatives of the PCNGi signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to convert vehicles on the Abuja-Itakpe-Ajaokuta-Adavi route to CNG. In return, the agreement promises a 30-40% reduction in transport fares for passengers using these routes.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, PCNGi Programme Director Michael Oluwagbemi described the initiative as a game changer, adding that “This programme will encourage NURTW members in Abuja to convert their vehicles to CNG in exchange for a significant fare reduction. It is a step towards a cleaner and more cost-effective public transport system.”
Nationwide Expansion
The PCNGi plans to extend the Transport Fare Drop Programme nationwide, starting on Saturday, September 28, 2024. The programme will be launched in 38 centres across key states, including Kaduna, Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Delta, and Edo. The PCNGi will host commercial car open days to promote CNG adoption and provide incentives to commercial vehicle operators.
Strategic Partnerships
In another strategic move, PCNGi will sign an agreement with the Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF) on Monday, September 30, 2024. This partnership will operationalise the Nigerian Police CNG Conversion Programme, which aims to train police cadets to manage newly established conversion centres funded by the NPTF.
According to Oluwagbemi, “The collaboration with the NPTF will not only enhance the efficiency of the police force’s transport systems but also create new opportunities for police cadets to gain critical technical skills.”
CNG Tricycle Empowerment Programme
To mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day on October 1, 2024, the PCNGi will also launch a CNG Tricycle Empowerment Program in collaboration with the Ministry of Youths. The initiative will provide over 2,000 young Nigerians with the opportunity to own and operate CNG-powered tricycles, thereby promoting youth employment and entrepreneurship.
Upcoming Launches in Kogi and Ekiti States
Further, the PCNGi will launch the Kogi State Conversion Incentive Programme on October 2, 2024, where it will hand over CNG buses to the state’s mass transit entity for interstate routes connecting to Abuja. The event will also see the inauguration of three new CNG conversion centres in the state.
The PCNGi’s week-long activities will conclude with the launch in Ekiti State, where more CNG buses will be handed over to the state’s mass transit organisation. Four new CNG conversion sites will also be inaugurated.
With these initiatives, the PCNGi is poised to make a substantial impact on Nigeria’s transport sector, making travel more affordable and environmentally sustainable.
Issued on behalf of PCNGi
