The government of Niger State has officially announced the introduction of a fleet comprising 200 buses powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for public transportation services.
Abdulberqy Usman Ebbo, the Special Adviser on Digital Communications to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, shared the news via his verified X account platform on Monday.
The genesis of this initiative dated back to 2023 when Governor Bago orchestrated strategic partnerships with four reputable companies, culminating in the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to procure 200 environmentally sustainable CNG buses at a cost of N7 billion. This decision was prompted by the removal of subsidies, aiming to ease the financial burden on citizens while promoting eco-friendly energy solutions.
With the impending rollout of these cutting-edge buses, the state envisions a significant enhancement of its public transportation infrastructure, promising greater accessibility, efficiency, and environmental responsibility for its residents.
The forthcoming public transportation service facilitated by CNG buses. The statement made known the provision of complimentary rides for students commuting to schools within the capital city of Minna. Moreover, discounted fares will be extended to civil servants traveling to work, with strategically positioned bus stops in Minna and at the state secretariat to efficiently manage the influx of commuters.
Furthermore, a segment of the bus fleet will be designated for daily routes connecting Suleja and Abuja, complemented by specialized services catering to inter-local government travel originating from the state capital.
” Some of these buses will be dedicated to transporting students to schools for free within Minna. Another set will offer discounted fares for civil servants commuting to their workplaces,
“Designated bus stops will be established in Minna and at the state secretariat, as a large number of civil servants usually commute to the secretariat. A portion of the buses will be allocated for daily trips between Suleja and Abuja. There will be dedicated bus services for inter-local government movements from the state capital as well,’ the statement read.
Governor Umaru Bago’s firm belief in subsidizing transportation expenses as a means of providing enduring and sustainable assistance to the community which shows efforts to modernize its public transportation system while prioritizing environmental sustainability and economic viability. This initiative not only promises to alleviate the financial burden on citizens but also sets a precedent for other regions to embrace innovative solutions for a greener future.
