Tinubu gave the directive on Saturday, September 19, while providing an update on the National Affordable CNG Transit Programme.
The programme followed his August 27 meeting with the governors of the 36 states, during which an objective was set for more Nigerians to begin experiencing measurable reductions in transportation costs from October 1.
The President urged state governments to maintain momentum by working with transport unions and commercial operators, supporting vehicle conversions and fleet deployment, and providing the infrastructure required to expand CNG-powered transportation.
“I encourage every state to maintain the momentum towards October 1. Work with transport unions and commercial operators. Support conversion and fleet deployment.
“Facilitate the infrastructure required. Above all, ensure that savings from cheaper energy reach Nigerian citizens through lower fares,” he said.
Tinubu said several states were already recording reductions in transport fares following the deployment of CNG-powered and electric buses.
He cited Borno State, where he said CNG-powered and electric public transport services carry commuters for between ₦50 and ₦100 on routes where commercial operators charge between ₦300 and ₦600.
He also said 100 CNG-powered buses in Kaduna had provided free transportation on major routes, while CNG buses deployed to Pacesetter Transport in Oyo State had reduced the Lagos-Ibadan fare from about ₦8,000 to ₦3,200 during the initial deployment.
According to the President, alternative-energy transport services in Adamawa had reduced fares by as much as 50 per cent, from ₦8,000 to ₦4,000, while 100 CNG buses in Enugu had brought the Enugu-Nsukka fare down from ₦2,500 to ₦1,500.
In Plateau State, Tinubu said government-supported buses were carrying about 13,000 commuters daily for ₦200, compared with more than ₦500 charged by commercial operators.
He added that passengers on some Abuja routes were receiving fare reductions through a partnership involving CNG-converted commercial vehicles and the National Union of Road Transport Workers.
Tinubu said the Federal Government would continue to support the expansion of CNG infrastructure and vehicle conversion capacity while creating opportunities for states, transport operators, manufacturers and private investors to participate.
The President said the objective was to ensure that the cost savings from alternative energy were passed on to commuters through reduced fares.
The National Affordable CNG Transit Programme is being implemented with an implementation committee under the auspices of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, chaired by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
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