President Tinubu's Fare Reduction Deadline Faces Challenges

Many states in Nigeria are facing challenges in meeting the October 1 deadline set by President Bola Tinubu to reduce transportation costs. Despite some states announcing fare cuts, many lack the necessary infrastructure for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion and refueling facilities.

President Tinubu's directive, part of the National Affordable CNG Transit Programme, aims to reflect lower operating costs in reduced fares for commuters. However, in Abuja, the expected 40 percent fare reduction for CNG-converted vehicles has not yet been implemented at the Area 1 Motor Park.

Commercial driver Uche Chijioke noted that drivers have not received directives regarding fare changes, and unilateral fare reductions could financially strain transport companies. In Borno State, the state government has introduced electric vehicles, but there are no federal electric vehicles deployed.

The North East Development Commission is assembling 10,000 electric buses and cars for distribution in the Northeast, with commissioning expected in October.