State governors are considering measures that could reduce transportation fares across Nigeria through the proposed National Affordable CNG Transit Programme (NACTP).
The proposal was discussed at the third meeting of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), held on Wednesday in Abuja. The meeting was attended by several governors and deputy governors and was chaired by NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
During the meeting, governors received a presentation on the proposed NACTP, a state-led initiative aimed at using the lower operating costs associated with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to make public transportation more affordable for Nigerians.
Under the proposed programme, states would support the conversion of vehicles to CNG, provide or support CNG-powered fleets and develop the infrastructure needed to sustain the initiative. Participating transport operators would also be expected to commit to lower passenger fares.
The governors acknowledged the potential of the programme to reduce transportation costs but said further consideration was needed regarding its financing and implementation framework, according to a statement issued by AbdulRazaq.
Governors Discuss Trade and Investment Opportunities
The NGF also considered other national issues during the meeting, including a presentation by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole.
The presentation focused on opportunities for states to participate in CANEX Weekend 2026 and the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027, both of which are scheduled to take place in Lagos.
“Governors noted the platform’s potential to showcase investment-ready projects, promote local exports and tourism, and connect State MSMEs with African and global investors and buyers. “The Forum assured the Honourable Minister of its support in achieving these objectives,” the statement said.
Governors and Deputies Attend NGF Meeting
Governors present at the meeting included Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule.
Deputy governors from Katsina, Yobe, Niger and Oyo states were also represented.
If implemented, the proposed CNG transit programme could provide relief to commuters by reducing the cost of public transportation, although the governors are yet to finalize its funding and implementation arrangements.
