Lagos State Government Unveils Massive CNG Vehicle Replacement Program
The Lagos State Government has taken a decisive step toward improving road safety and modernizing the transportation sector by approving a N150 billion Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative. This ambitious program aims to replace aging and unsafe commercial vehicles operating across the state with newer, environmentally friendly alternatives.
Comprehensive Plan for Safer Roads
Mr. Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor, made the announcement during a strategic meeting with executives from the Nigeria Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO). The engagement session brought together both national and state-level representatives of the transport association to discuss the implementation details.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has given his official approval for the acquisition of 2,000 CNG trucks under this comprehensive initiative. According to Giwa, N50 billion from the total N150 billion fund has been specifically allocated to replace rickety trucks that pose significant risks on Lagos roads.
This targeted approach is expected to create substantial positive impacts within the maritime transport domain, where many of these aging vehicles currently operate. The initiative represents a major investment in upgrading the state's transportation infrastructure while prioritizing public safety.
Partnership and Additional Safety Measures
The groundbreaking program is being implemented in collaboration with United Bank for Africa (UBA), which will provide financial support and banking services for the initiative. This partnership is designed to ensure the program's sustainability and effective implementation.
Giwa emphasized that the initiative will significantly contribute to protecting lives and property while preventing damage to government infrastructure caused by vehicle-related accidents. The move addresses long-standing concerns about the safety standards of commercial vehicles operating in Nigeria's most populous state.
In addition to the vehicle replacement program, the government has approved comprehensive health checks for truck drivers. These include free safety drug substance tests for all truck drivers in Lagos State, along with free eye examinations and free eyeglasses for those who require vision correction.
Transport Stakeholders Applaud Initiative
Alhaji Yusuf Lawal Othman, the President of NARTO, expressed strong support for the development during the stakeholders' meeting. The transport leader commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for introducing the initiative, noting that it will substantially improve the services provided by NARTO members.
Othman also praised the state government's significant investments in the transportation sector, highlighting various ongoing projects including developments in the rail sector. The NARTO president extended his appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, mentioning valuable contributions from the presidential CNG initiative that have already helped boost transportation efficiency and reduce fares by approximately 30 percent.
This comprehensive approach to transportation reform demonstrates Lagos State's commitment to creating a safer, more efficient, and environmentally conscious transport system that benefits both operators and the general public.
