In a strategic response to the recent elimination of fuel subsidies by the Federal Government, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has launched a groundbreaking initiative – the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mass Transit Buses.
This progressive move comes as Ogun State positions itself as a pioneer in adopting alternative, environmentally friendly transportation solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
The governor unveiled 17 CNG buses, making Ogun State the first in the nation to implement such a scheme. These eco-friendly vehicles are set to transform public transportation and provide relief to residents in the face of rising fuel costs.
Governor Abiodun emphasized that the CNG project was conceived not merely as a reaction to the fuel subsidy removal but as part of a broader plan for a cost-effective, environment-friendly transportation system that had minimal environmental consequences.
He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “As your governor, I am extremely delighted that we are able to commence the implementation of this laudable initiative, and I am bold to say that we come tops yet again as the first state in the country to record this feat.”
Local mechanics have been trained to be part of the conversion engineering process, and conversion stations have been strategically placed across the three senatorial districts in Ogun State. This infrastructure will facilitate the rapid conversion of commercial and public mass transit buses and vehicles throughout the state.
Beyond reducing the cost of transporting goods and services, the CNG initiative will also provide training and job opportunities for thousands of technicians and mechanics in Ogun State.
Some of these CNG buses will be allocated to workers and students, while others will serve specific routes with high traffic volumes, such as the Mowe-Ibafo to Berger in Lagos, the Redeemed axis to Lagos Island, and more. As the fleet expands, buses will be deployed to major towns and cities, beginning with Sango-Ota, Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, and many others. This will significantly improve mass transportation for the state’s residents.
Moreover, the Ogun State government has already established a gas filling station at Obada-Oko and is planning to provide further infrastructure support for refueling the CNG buses along roads and terminals.
Governor Abiodun acknowledged the pivotal role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the initiative, stressing the government’s commitment to executing projects in line with the federal government’s direction.
The launch of CNG Mass Transit Buses in Ogun State demonstrates a forward-thinking and progressive approach to transportation and environmental challenges, offering both economic benefits and ecological advantages.
