Ogun to Introduce 100 CNG Buses with Easy Repayment Plans for Transporters
Hauwa Ali
Ogun State Government has unveiled plans to roll out 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered buses to ease transportation across the state.
Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this during a meeting with transport unions on Monday at the Governor’s Office, Abeokuta.
Addressing the transporters the governor said the initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to promote cleaner energy while offering economic support to local transporters.
The new buses, which are 18-seater Toyota Hiace models, will be made available to transport unions across the state through a flexible payment scheme, Governor Abiodin noted.
The governor emphasized that transporters will be able to acquire the buses through instalment plans, making it easier for them to modernize their fleets without bearing the full cost upfront.
He expressed optimism that this initiative would not only reduce the transportation sector’s dependence on petrol and diesel but also offer more stable pricing for operators, given the global volatility in fuel markets.
“Transporters have shown a strong commitment, and we are confident that they will responsibly manage these buses and meet their payment obligations,” the governor said adding that the CNG powered buses would reduce transportation costs and promote environmental sustainability.
Governor Abiodun also revealed that Ogun State is set to benefit from the Federal Government’s Energy Transition Program, which will provide an additional 20 CNG buses in the coming weeks as part of the Presidential CNG Initiative.
In addition, 500 CNG conversion kits are expected to be delivered to the state within days. These kits will enable vehicle owners to convert their petrol and diesel-powered vehicles to CNG, further expanding the availability of cleaner energy options for transport operators.
During the meeting with the transport unions, Governor Abiodun announced the creation of an enforcement committee, which will include representatives from key agencies such as the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Traffic Compliance Agency (TRACE).
The committee will work closely with transport unions to ensure that fare increases are kept in check and reflect fair market practices.