NURTW: We’ll Reduce Transport Fare Drastically If Autogas Conversion Is Well Implemented

• The National Union of Road Transport Workers pledges to lower transport fares if the government’s autogas conversion initiative is effectively implemented
• The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative aims to convert 1 million vehicles, providing free CNG conversion kits to commercial transport operators

The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has pledged to significantly lower transport fares if the Federal Government implements the ongoing autogas conversion initiative. This initiative, which aims to shift vehicles from relying on expensive premium motor spirit (PMS) to compressed natural gas (CNG), can potentially cut fuel costs for transporters and passengers.

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi), launched under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive, seeks to convert 1 million vehicles by providing free CNG conversion kits for commercial vehicles transporting people, food, and goods. This is part of the government’s effort to offer a more affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to petrol.

On Saturday, the PCNGi began inspecting commercial vehicles for CNG conversion in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The conversion exercise, conducted in collaboration with Nigerian Gas and Transport Solutions Limited (NGTSL), occurred at Ogun Public Works Agency on Quarry Road and NexGen Automotive in Olorunsogo.

The federal government has delivered at least 100 CNG conversion kits to these centers. Speaking on behalf of the NURTW, State Chairman Ismail Adewale Yaro expressed his support for the initiative, noting that the high price of petrol forces transporters to increase fares. He stated that if the initiative is well implemented, the NURTW would drastically reduce transport fares.

Yaro added, “If the initiative is well implemented, we will drastically reduce the transport fare. It’s like we are wasting our time because we are not making a profit. All our income is being spent on fuel every day.”

The Director of Vehicle Inspection Services at the Ogun State Ministry of Transportation, Engr. Ademehin Olugboyega, explained that vehicle inspections are necessary to determine which vehicles are suitable for CNG conversion. He emphasized the safety of the 70-litre CNG cylinders, stating that they are accident-proof, bulletproof, and cannot cause explosions.

If successful, the initiative is expected to relieve transport workers and the general public, reducing transportation costs and fuel dependency.