The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially commenced the rollout of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses to federal universities across the country, starting with the University of Abuja. This initiative, branded as ‘CNG-Sprout,’ marks a significant step toward addressing the dual challenges of rising transportation costs for students and the urgent need for cleaner energy solutions in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
At a commissioning event held on Thursday in Abuja, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, underscored the project’s importance as part of Nigeria’s broader energy transition and economic strategy. “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 minister declared.
The ‘CNG-Sprout’ project is the first phase of the Federal Government’s “Project CNG Special Palliative Relief for Universities Transportation.” It aims to deploy environmentally friendly buses to 20 federal universities nationwide, reducing the financial burden on students while promoting sustainable energy use.
This initiative is a direct response to Nigeria’s pressing energy challenges and the government’s commitment to cleaner fuels. Minister Ekperikpe Ekpo highlighted that cushioning vulnerable populations, such as students, during this energy transition is a national priority. “As we navigate energy reforms and shift towards cleaner fuels, cushioning the impact on vulnerable populations, particularly students, remains a key national priority,” he said.
The project is being implemented through the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF) in partnership with FEMADEC Energy Limited. The collaboration was praised for its timely and efficient delivery of the first phase of bus deployment. This public-private partnership exemplifies the government’s dedication to expanding Nigeria’s natural gas infrastructure and encouraging domestic consumption.
In 2024, the government allocated N122 billion to six indigenous companies under the MDGIF to enhance the country’s gas infrastructure and support the increased use of gas across various sectors. This financial injection is a crucial step toward meeting Nigeria’s ambitious goals for energy sustainability and industrial growth.
The rollout of CNG buses is only the beginning of a comprehensive plan to modernize Nigeria’s public transportation system. Minister Ekpo revealed upcoming measures, including incentives for CNG vehicle conversions, expansion of refueling stations, and support for local assembly and innovation in the CNG value chain.
“This is not just a transport solution, it is a jobs and industrialization pathway,” he emphasized, pointing to the initiative’s potential to stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities.
Oluwole Adama, Managing Director of MDGIF, commended President Bola Tinubu for his clear policy directives, especially Executive Order 40 and the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas. Adama noted the successful deployment of CNG refueling infrastructure at universities as a significant milestone given the stringent timelines.
Michael Oluwagbemi, CEO of PiCNG, expressed optimism about the project’s impact on Nigerian academic communities. He described the partnership as a fulfillment of President Tinubu’s post-inauguration pledge to enhance transport with CNG technology, delivering “hope, innovation, and a future-forward solution to the mobility and energy challenges facing our academic communities.”
Education Minister Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, who coordinated with vice-chancellors of the selected universities, affirmed that within 24 months, all federal tertiary institutions would benefit from CNG transport amenities, signaling a nationwide transformation.
The deployment of CNG buses aligns Nigeria with global climate goals by reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner energy. For students, the initiative promises reduced transportation costs and improved access to affordable mobility, making campus life more manageable financially.
The government’s focus on green energy transition through practical projects such as ‘CNG-Sprout’ reflects its dedication to sustainable development and economic resilience, fostering an environment where educational institutions can thrive while supporting national environmental targets.