The Federal Government has rolled out a free Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus service in Abuja, offering relief to commuters facing high transportation costs. The buses began operations on December 2, 2024, and will run free of charge for the next 40 days, ending on January 6, 2025.
Routes and Coverage
The CNG buses will operate along key routes from Abuja’s suburbs, including Mararaba to Eagle Square and the Berger bus stop, serving a significant number of daily commuters. The initiative is part of the Presidential CNG Initiative and was announced via a video shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) page.
Government’s Support for Transport Unions
Last week, the Ministry of Transportation handed over 15 CNG-powered buses to three major transport unions:
- The National Road Transport Workers Union (NURTW)
- The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO)
- The Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN)
The buses are intended to reduce the financial burden on commuters in the capital city and encourage the use of environmentally friendly transportation.
Public Reaction
The program has received widespread praise from beneficiaries. Fatima, one of the commuters, expressed her gratitude:
“I just boarded a CNG bus going to Maraba, and we were asked not to pay, and I didn’t pay. I hope it will continue for long. I like it very much; I know this is the beginning of good things that will happen to Nigerian people.”
Another commuter, Blessing, appreciated the gesture but called for long-term solutions:
“If they’re doing like this, we’ll be happy. After this one now, let them bring down the price.”
A Step Toward Affordable Transportation
The initiative represents a significant effort by the government to address the rising cost of living and transportation in Abuja. While the free rides are temporary, many Nigerians hope this marks the beginning of broader reforms in the transportation sector, including lower fares and expanded access to efficient, eco-friendly transit options.
As the program unfolds, its success will likely influence future policies aimed at easing economic pressures on citizens nationwide.
