In a significant move aimed at youth empowerment and economic development, the Federal Government has officially launched the distribution of 2,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tricycles. The flag-off ceremony took place at the Old Parade Ground in Abuja on Tuesday, coinciding with the 64th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence.
Michael Oluwagbemi, the Project Director of the Presidential Initiative on CNG, highlighted that the initiative fulfills President Bola Tinubu’s promise to reduce transportation costs, enhance economic well-being, and promote environmental sustainability through the use of clean fuel. He emphasized that the assembly of these tricycles took place in Shagamu, Nigeria, and that over 50 young individuals were trained in the last three weeks to assemble the CNG tricycles, with plans for further training.
“We are here to deliver on Mr. President’s promise and to hand over 2,000 CNG-powered tricycles that will begin to form the bedrock of this revolution,” Oluwagbemi stated. He explained that the initiative is expected to create job opportunities not only in operating the tricycles but also in their maintenance and deployment across Nigeria.
“This represents a very small step towards delivering a future powered by gas that ensures Nigeria’s development, transforming our abundant resources into wealth and jobs for all Nigerians,” he added.
Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, the Minister for Youth Development, praised the initiative, asserting that the tricycles would alleviate transportation challenges faced by citizens and transporters alike. She commended the Tinubu-led administration for its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for the youth.
“These tricycles will go a long way in easing the transportation challenges faced by our transporters and citizens across the country. This intervention will serve as a great relief to our people, demonstrating the administration’s dedication to the quality of life for young people,” she remarked.
Additionally, Dr. Bio-Ibrahim indicated that the National Youth Investment Fund would provide essential financial support for young investors in the transportation sector, as the Ministry aims to collaborate with the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative to reach its target of 2 million tricycles.
The launch of the CNG-powered tricycles marks a pivotal step in the Nigerian government’s broader strategy to harness clean energy and create sustainable job opportunities for its youth, while addressing the pressing issue of transportation in the country.
