State governors across Nigeria are considering measures to reduce transportation fares through the proposed National Affordable CNG Transit Programme (NACTP), as authorities continue to explore ways of easing the financial burden of transport costs on Nigerians.
The proposed programme is expected to promote the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered vehicles for public transportation, taking advantage of Nigeria’s abundant natural gas resources to provide a cheaper alternative to petrol and diesel.
The initiative comes amid persistent concerns over the high cost of transportation, which has placed additional pressure on households and businesses across the country.
Transportation costs have remained a major component of the cost-of-living crisis, particularly for workers, students, traders and other Nigerians who depend on public transport for their daily activities. Under the proposed NACTP, governments are expected to work together to expand access to CNG-powered buses and other mass-transit vehicles while developing mechanisms that can make fares more affordable for passengers.
The governors’ consideration of fare reductions reflects growing efforts to ensure that the benefits of Nigeria’s transition to CNG are felt directly by ordinary citizens.
CNG generally costs less to operate than conventional petrol-powered vehicles, particularly when supported by an efficient supply and distribution network. A wider adoption of CNG buses could therefore reduce the operating expenses of transport operators and potentially translate into lower fares for commuters.
However, the success of the programme will depend on several factors, including the availability of CNG refuelling stations, reliable gas supply, vehicle conversion infrastructure and effective regulation of transport operators.
The proposed programme could also complement the Federal Government’s broader efforts to promote CNG as an alternative fuel following the removal of petrol subsidy.
Since the subsidy removal, transportation has become more expensive in many parts of the country as operators contend with higher fuel and vehicle operating costs. This has contributed to increased expenses for Nigerians travelling between communities and cities. The NACTP could provide an opportunity for states to strengthen public transportation systems while reducing dependence on petrol and diesel.
Beyond cheaper transportation, increased use of CNG-powered vehicles could also support Nigeria’s energy transition and create opportunities across the natural gas value chain, including vehicle conversion, maintenance, fuel distribution and related services.
For passengers, however, the key question will be whether the proposed programme can deliver measurable reductions in transport fares rather than simply increasing the availability of CNG buses.
The governors are expected to continue discussions on the framework and implementation of the programme as stakeholders work towards developing a sustainable national transport system. If successfully implemented, the National Affordable CNG Transit Programme could provide relief for millions of Nigerians who spend a significant portion of their income on daily transportation.
For now, commuters will be watching closely to see how the proposed initiative translates into actual fare reductions and improved public transportation across the country.