FG Unveils CNG Taxis at Abuja Airport, Targets 30% Reduction in Fares
The Federal Government has teamed up with taxi operators at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport under the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI).
This initiative aims to convert 800 vehicles from petrol to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), targeting a 30% reduction in shuttle fares.
During the agreement signing on Tuesday in Abuja, Mr. Michael Oluwagbemi, Programme Director and Chief Executive of P-CNGI, emphasized that this conversion aligns with the current administration’s commitment to transitioning one million commercial vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG).
This edge underscores the government’s dedication to advancing cleaner and more cost-effective transportation solutions.
The Federal Government has partnered with taxi operators at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport through the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI).
This initiative aims to convert 800 vehicles from petrol to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), resulting in a 30% reduction in shuttle fares.
Mr. Oluwagbemi, represented by Mr. Folarin Oworo, the Programme Execution Coordinator, elaborated that the airport taxi operators manage a fleet of 800 vehicles. The 30% fare discount will be implemented once 50% of the fleet—approximately 400 vehicles—has been converted to CNG.
There are various prices based on the distance one is traveling, so the 30% reduction will be applied accordingly to the current prices for each destination,” he explained.
He added that a rate card detailing prices and discounts will be available in the vehicles, ensuring passengers are informed based on their destinations. To maintain compliance, regular monitoring will be conducted to ensure diligent delivery of the service.
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Addressing safety concerns, Oluwagbemi clarified that explosionscan only occur with illegal installations using substandard cylinders.The initiative mandates the use of SON-certified, bulletproofcylinders that are resistant to damage or explosions unless tamperedwith or improperly modified.
To improve efficiency, the program provides 65- and 75-litercylinders to reduce refilling times. Plans are underway to introducevarious sizes and shapes to accommodate different vehicles andcargo needs.
Aliyu Abdulaziz-Aliyu, spokesman for the airport taxi operators,praised the initiative and expressed gratitude to the federalgovernment for offering the conversion service free of charge. Heexpressed optimism that the transition to CNG would significantlyreduce operational costs and lower fares for airport passengers.
Yunus Ismail, manager of Salma Auto CNG, confirmed his center’sreadiness to convert the fleet as agreed, while Emmanuel Ike,Secretary of Exodus Motors, urged the government to expand CNGrefilling stations to meet the growing demand and ensureuninterrupted operations.
This edge underscores the government’s dedication to advancingcleaner and more cost-effective transportation solutions.
