The Federal Government has launched the deployment of compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered buses to Nigerian universities, starting with the University of Abuja. The initiative, tagged ‘CNG-Sprout’, aims to cushion high transportation costs and promote cleaner energy use on campuses.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, described the initiative as a timely response to Nigeria’s energy transition and economic realities. He said, “I hereby commission the Project CNG-Sprout buses for deployment to university campuses across the country. May they serve as vehicles not just of transport but of hope, relief, and national progress.”
The project is expected to be replicated across 20 federal universities nationwide. Ekpo added, “As we navigate energy reforms and shift towards cleaner fuels, cushioning the impact on vulnerable populations, particularly students, remains a key national priority.”
The CNG-Sprout buses are expected to significantly reduce transportation costs for students while reducing Nigeria’s carbon footprint. The government plans to unveil further incentives for CNG vehicle conversion, expand refuelling infrastructure, and support local assembly and innovation in the CNG value chain.
Michael Oluwagbemi, CEO of PiCNG, said, “Through this partnership, we are delivering more than just buses and tricycles. We are delivering hope, innovation, and a future-forward solution to the mobility and energy challenges facing our academic communities.”
The launch of the CNG-Sprout buses marks a significant step towards promoting sustainable transportation and reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels. The initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the environment, students, and the broader economy.
The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, was represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, who commended the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) for the initiative. He noted that the deployment of CNG buses would significantly improve the transportation system in Nigerian universities, enhancing the overall learning experience for students.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for selecting the institution as the first beneficiary of the CNG-Sprout project. He assured that the university would make optimal use of the buses, which would ease transportation challenges for students and staff.
The CNG-Sprout project is a collaborative effort between the Federal Government and private sector stakeholders, aimed at promoting the adoption of cleaner energy solutions in Nigeria. The initiative is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to the country’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
As the CNG-Sprout buses begin operations, students and staff of the University of Abuja are expected to benefit from reduced transportation costs and improved mobility. The project is also expected to serve as a model for other institutions across the country, promoting the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions in Nigerian universities.
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