- The governor pledged to launch alternative energy transport, including electric trucks and motorbikes, to ease the burden of fuel subsidy removal.
- Ogun State had rolled out CNG-complaint vehicles before the federal government’s CNG project.
The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, announced yesterday that the state will launch trucks and motorbikes powered by alternative energy sources. He disclosed this while speaking at the 18th National Council of Transportation conference with the theme “Enhancing innovations and technologies for sustainable transportation: Tackling the energy challenges,” held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta. Abiodun, represented by Commissioner for Transportation, Olugbenga Dairo, emphasised Ogun State’s commitment to pioneering sustainable transportation systems using alternative energy.
He highlighted the conference’s relevance, particularly in the current energy crisis triggered by the removal of fuel subsidies, impacting transportation costs and related services. “Ever before the Federal Government rolled out plans for the Compressed Natural Gas project, the state has taken the initiative by rolling out the CNG-compliant vehicles. These vehicles will support a green environment and ease the transportation burden faced by the public. Transportation with other alternative energy sources, including electric trucks and motorbikes, would soon be launched in the state,’’ he stated.
According to the governor, the state’s multi-modal transport master plan had created opportunities for residents and travellers and enhanced business developments across all strata. He encouraged delegates to build on the potential for cross-fertilisation of ideas, innovations, and technologies. On his part, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Michael Oloruntola, said that the conference sought to uphold the prioritisation of innovative technologies that enhanced affordability, accessibility, safety, security and environmental sustainability. He urged that deliberations at the conference should tilt towards sustainable transport development, which would improve the welfare of Nigerians, create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth.