State governors are considering reducing transportation fares nationwide through the proposed National Affordable CNG Transit Programme.
The proposal was discussed at the third meeting of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum held on Wednesday in Abuja.
The meeting was chaired by the NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, with several governors and deputy governors in attendance.
According to a statement issued by AbdulRazaq, the governors received a presentation on the proposed National Affordable CNG Transit Programme, a state-led initiative designed to pass the lower operating costs of compressed natural gas vehicles on to passengers through reduced fares.
The programme proposes state support for CNG vehicle conversions, transport fleets and supporting infrastructure, alongside fare commitments from participating operators.
The initiative has an indicative target of lowering passenger fares across participating routes.
The governors acknowledged the potential of the programme to reduce transportation costs for Nigerians but said its financing and implementation framework required further consideration.
The proposal comes as governments continue to promote CNG as a cheaper alternative fuel for transport and seek ways to ease the impact of high transportation costs on households.
Beyond transportation, the NGF also considered opportunities for states to participate in CANEX Weekend 2026 and the Intra-African Trade Fair 2027, both scheduled to take place in Lagos.
The Forum received a presentation from the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, on the opportunities available to states through the two events.
The governors said the platforms could help showcase investment-ready projects, promote local exports and tourism, and connect state-based micro, small and medium enterprises with African and international investors and buyers.
“Governors noted the platform’s potential to showcase investment-ready projects, promote local exports and tourism, and connect State MSMEs with African and global investors and buyers,” the statement said.
“The Forum assured the Honourable Minister of its support in achieving these objectives.”
Those who attended the meeting included Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule.
Deputy governors from Katsina, Yobe, Niger and Oyo states were also represented.
Author
