Federal Government has launched a free Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus service in Abuja.
The service, which commenced on December 2, 2024, will offer free rides for residents for the next 40 days, ending on January 6, 2025.
The Presidential CNG Initiative announced the launch through a video shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) page, showcasing the buses in operation. The free bus service will cover major routes from Abuja suburbs, including Mararaba, Eagle Square, and Berger bus stop, providing temporary relief to commuters during the festive season.
This initiative aligns with the government’s broader plan to transition to cleaner energy solutions and address environmental concerns. Speaking at the inauguration of the Inter-Agency Committee on Fuels in Abuja, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, emphasized the benefits of using low sulphur fuel and CNG for both public health and the environment.
“The use of cleaner fuel will significantly reduce air pollution and human health challenges caused by high sulphur in petroleum products,” Lawal said. He noted that high sulphur concentrations in fuel contribute to climate change effects, such as extreme weather and dirty air, which necessitate collaborative action to promote cleaner alternatives.
Lawal assured Nigerians that the government remains committed to raising awareness about the potential of low sulphur fuel and CNG to mitigate pollution, enhance public health, and combat climate change.
This free bus service is expected to serve as a practical demonstration of the benefits of CNG-powered transportation, while also offering immediate economic relief to residents struggling with high transport costs. The government’s initiative represents a step forward in the drive towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation system in Nigeria.
