The Federal Government has introduced a free Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus service in Abuja to help alleviate transportation costs for residents of the capital city.
The CNG buses began operations on December 2, 2024, as shown in a video shared by the Presidential CNG Initiative on its X (formerly Twitter) account.
These buses will operate along key routes in Abuja, including popular areas like Mararaba, Eagle Square, and the Berger bus stop. The government has announced that passengers can ride the buses free of charge for the next 40 days, with the initiative set to end on January 6, 2025.
In addition to this new service, the Ministry of Transportation recently handed over 15 CNG-powered buses to three major transport unions in the city. This move aims to further reduce the high cost of public transportation in the capital.
The unions that benefited from this initiative include the National Road Transport Workers Union, the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners, and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria.
In a video captured on Monday, several commuters shared their thoughts on the new service. Many expressed their appreciation for the government’s efforts to reduce transportation costs.
One commuter, Fatima, said, “I just boarded a CNG bus to Mararaba, and we were told the ride was free. I didn’t have to pay, and I really hope this continues. I believe this is the start of something great for the people of Nigeria.”
Another passenger, Blessing, added, “If they continue like this, we’ll be happy. After this free service, we hope they reduce the fares. I think that’s what should happen next.”
