The Federal Government on Thursday began the deployment of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses to 20 federal universities across the country.
The project, known as CNG-SPROUT, kicked off at the University of Abuja. SPROUT stands for Special Palliative Relief on University Transportation.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr Ekperikpe Ekpo, launched the programme in Abuja.
He said the initiative would cushion the effect of high transport costs on students and promote clean energy.
“I hereby commission the Project CNG-SPROUT buses for deployment to university campuses across the country. May they serve as vehicles of transport, hope, relief and national progress,” he said.
Ekpo noted that the programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to affordable energy and environmental protection.
He said it also supports reforms in the transport sector and aims to help vulnerable groups, especially students.
The project is being implemented by the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF) in partnership with FEMADEC Energy Ltd.
Ekpo said the rollout of CNG buses was the beginning of a broader plan to modernise public transportation in Nigeria.
He said more incentives for vehicle conversion to CNG and the expansion of fuelling infrastructure would be unveiled soon.
“This is not just a transport solution; it is also a pathway to job creation and industrialisation,” he added.
Managing Director of MDGIF, Mr Oluwole Adama, commended the completion of the first phase on schedule.
He said the deployment of CNG refuelling infrastructure in 20 universities was a major achievement under tight timelines.
PCNGI Chief Executive Officer, Mr Michael Oluwagbemi, said the initiative fulfils President Tinubu’s pledge to deploy CNG buses in tertiary institutions.
“We are delivering more than just buses and tricycles. We are delivering hope and innovation to our academic communities,” he said.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, commended the initiative, noting that it would transform the education sector.
He also praised President Tinubu for other student-focused projects, including free campus WiFi and solar power provision.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. Patricia Lar, said the school had received five 18-seater buses and several tricycles.
She said the buses would provide affordable transport for students and staff, both on and off campus.
Managing Director of FEMADEC, Mr Fola Akinola, said the project included a gas curriculum to train students in CNG technology and conversion kits.
He said the goal was not just transport provision, but skills development and long-term energy solutions.
