- Innoson Motors has begun delivering 100-seater Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses as part of the Federal Government’s initiative to reduce the impact of fuel subsidy removal.
- Ogun and Edo states are actively adopting CNG vehicles, and plans are underway for more local assembly and conversion centres to promote sustainable transportation solutions across Nigeria.
Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd (IVM) has started delivering Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses ordered by the Federal Government as part of the Presidential CNG Initiative to alleviate the impact of fuel subsidy withdrawal. This delivery follows the government’s order two weeks before a meeting between IVM’s Chairman, Chief Dr Innocent Chukwuma, and President Bola Tinubu.
At a ceremony in Nnewi, Anambra State, Chief Chukwuma announced that IVM commences with 25% of the requested 100-seater buses, highlighting the company’s commitment to producing CNG vehicles as a patriotic duty rather than just a business obligation. He expressed pride in Nigeria’s manufacturing capacity, noting that CNG is more affordable and requires less maintenance.
Chukwuma reiterated IVM’s partnership with the government, emphasising plans to produce additional CNG buses and accelerate the rollout of electric vehicles (EVs). He underscored his factory’s capability to meet local market demands without compromising quality. This initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s broader strategy to transition Nigeria towards cleaner energy sources.
As the CNG initiative unfolds, other states are also embracing the shift. Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun announced the provision of 100 new CNG buses to support local transporters, address rising fuel prices, and promote environmental sustainability. The Federal Government is contributing 20 CNG-enabled buses and 500 conversion kits to aid this transition.
Notably, Edo State has emerged as a leader in deploying CNG-driven vehicles, showcasing the potential for affordable mass transportation. Chukwuma emphasised that IVM can establish conversion centres with government support, facilitating broader adoption of CNG across Nigeria and creating job opportunities.
Innoson Motors is at the forefront of Nigeria’s energy transition, working collaboratively with government initiatives to expand the use of CNG vehicles. This proactive approach addresses economic challenges and positions Nigeria as a model for sustainable transportation solutions in Africa.