Several Nigerian states are still working to meet the Federal Government’s October 1 target for reducing transportation costs, with some states already offering subsidised fares while others face infrastructure and implementation challenges.
President Bola Tinubu had directed states to ensure that savings from cheaper energy sources, particularly Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), are reflected in lower fares for commuters from October 1.
The directive followed his August 27 meeting with the 36 state governors under the National Affordable CNG Transit Programme.
However, findings by Leadership showed that implementation remains uneven across the country.
In Abuja, the announced 40 per cent fare reduction for CNG-converted commercial vehicles had yet to be reflected at some motor parks, with drivers reportedly awaiting clearer implementation guidelines.
In Niger State, 200 CNG buses purchased by the government were reportedly yet to begin operations because the state lacks operational CNG refuelling infrastructure.
Plateau State commuters also reportedly said they were unaware of any recent reduction in fares, with no CNG or electric buses known to be operating on public routes.
Some states, however, have already introduced measures to reduce transportation costs.
In Kaduna, 100 CNG buses are reportedly providing free transportation on major routes. Ekiti State also provides free shuttle services for workers and students.
In Kebbi, more than 50 buses have been deployed by the state transport authority at subsidised fares. The fare from Birnin Kebbi to Sokoto, for instance, was reduced from ₦8,000 to ₦3,500.
Oyo State has deployed CNG buses to the Pacesetter Transport Service, which reduced the Lagos-Ibadan fare from about ₦8,000 to ₦3,200.
In Akwa Ibom, 50 CNG buses have been received and are expected to be deployed across the state’s 31 local government areas from October 1.
Abia State operates 40 electric buses under its Green Shuttle Service, although the fleet remains limited relative to the state’s transportation needs.
Meanwhile, Borno operates state-owned electric vehicles and tricycles at subsidised fares in Maiduguri, while additional federal vehicles are expected to be deployed in the North-East.
Cross River says it has electric buses ready for deployment, while Ondo State is expanding its CNG conversion and refuelling facilities.
In Delta, 50 CNG buses have been received as part of a pilot mass-transit programme, while Rivers State says it will continue free transport services for civil servants and explore the use of CNG buses.
The Federal Government says more work is required from the states to ensure that lower energy costs translate into cheaper fares for Nigerians.
Tinubu, in his September 19 update on the programme, said more than 120,000 vehicles had been converted to CNG, with over 400 certified conversion centres and more than 90 refuelling stations across the country. He urged states to accelerate implementation ahead of October 1.
