By Muyideen Aliyu, Ilorin

As part of efforts to promote affordable, reliable, and economical transportation for residents, the Kwara State Government has launched the operation of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles to reduce challenges faced by commuters in the state capital.

Speaking during the official launch of the vehicles in Ilorin, the State Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Lafia Aliyu Korasabi, described the initiative as aligning with the ongoing Federal Government transportation scheme targeted at providing relief from the financial burden facing millions of Nigerians.

Korasabi explained that the CNG initiative is a pilot programme and a deliberate effort by the Federal Government, as directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to enhance ease of transportation across the 36 states of the federation and mitigate economic hardships.

He noted that the prompt release of the 20 CNG buses to kick-start the operation underscores the commitment of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to improving citizens’ standard of living through affordable transportation.

The Commissioner urged transport union leaders in the state to embrace the new development, pointing out that the initiative was not intended to undermine or cripple the existing transportation sector but rather to create healthy competition and provide alternative choices for citizens.

He also listed some selected locations within and outside the state where the vehicles would operate, including Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan, Niger State, and within Kwara: Lafiagi, Kaiama, Patigi, Baruten, Moro local government areas, and the Malete Campus axis as part of the pilot scheme.

Earlier, the Director of Personnel, Finance and Supply in the Ministry, Mallam Tajudeen Onikoko, lauded the initiative and commended the governor for creating an enabling environment where businesses thrive. He urged all transport unions to embrace peace and work in synergy with the CNG operators to maintain a harmonious environment.

Also speaking, the State Coordinator for the CNG Station, Mr. Babatunde Gegele, said the station is currently situated at Odota, Ilorin, with 20 CNG buses in the pilot phase to support the existing transport system. He noted that the scheme would fill the vacuum left by the defunct Kwara Express and enhance the availability of reliable and affordable transport for all.

Gegele stressed the need for cooperation with existing transport unions, stakeholders, and law enforcement agencies to ensure strict adherence to the state’s transportation rules and regulations.

The Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Kwara State, Alh. AbdulRahman Olayinka Onikijipa, along with his counterparts from the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alh. AbdulRazaq Ariwoola, and the Association of Independent Transporters, Alh. AbdulGaniy Omoola Kasmag, described the programme as laudable and long-awaited. They stated that it would boost development in the transportation sector and alleviate the suffering of the masses.

They all assured their support for the initiative and commended the governor’s continued efforts to improve the living standards of Kwarans.