The Federal Government, under the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI), has launched a major partnership with the Airport Taxi Operators at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to convert 800 taxis to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in an effort to curb rising transportation costs.
Michael Oluwagbemi, the Programme Director of P-CNGI, highlighted this during the agreement signing ceremony held in Abuja on Tuesday. Represented by Folarin Oworo, the Programme Execution Coordinator, Oluwagbemi emphasized that the initiative aims to provide Nigerians with affordable, cleaner transportation options. He announced that, upon converting 50% of the taxi fleet – around 400 vehicles – passengers will immediately benefit from a 30% discount on airport taxi fares.
Fare Discounts Based on Destination
The fare reduction will be applied in alignment with the destination, with each vehicle displaying a red card showing current prices and applicable discounts based on the passenger’s destination. Regular monitoring will ensure compliance and consistent service.
“Various fares exist depending on the distance, so the 30% discount will be calculated accordingly. This partnership directly reflects President Bola Tinubu’s promise to convert one million commercial vehicles to CNG,” Oworo said.
Expansion of CNG Refilling Stations
Oluwagbemi also noted an increase in CNG refilling stations across Abuja, rising from one station at the program’s start to seven today, with more in the pipeline pending approval from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
Assurance of Safety Standards
Amid concerns over CNG safety, Oluwagbemi reassured Nigerians, stating, “CNG cylinders are practically bulletproof. They’re certified by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), ensuring that only legally converted vehicles with approved cylinders are used. Explosions can only occur if substandard, local cylinders are used.”
He added that P-CNGI would introduce various cylinder sizes, such as 65 and 75 liters, to optimize refilling time and accommodate different vehicle loads.
Support from Airport Taxi Operators
Aliyu Abdulaziz-Aliyu, spokesperson for the Airport Taxi Operators, praised the government’s initiative, expressing optimism that the collaboration would bring significant benefits to airport passengers and drivers alike.
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