Abia To Introduce CNG Buses, Gives New Date For Keke and Okada Restriction Enforcement
- The Abia state government is considering replacing motorcycles and Keke in Aba and Umuahia with CNG-powered buses
- Keke and Okada operators affected will be encouraged to join cooperatives to access the new CNG buses
- Abia state government is following in the footsteps of the federal government, which is working hard to increase the adoption of CNG buses
Legit.ng journalist Dave Ibemere has over a decade of business journalism experience with in-depth knowledge of the Nigerian economy, stocks, and general market trends.
The Abia state government is working on introducing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses in Aba and Umuahia.
The move is in response to plans to restrict tricycle (Keke) and motorcycle (Okada) operations.
Source: Getty Images
Okey Kanu, commissioner for information and culture, revealed this during a briefing in Umuahia, the Sun reports.
According to the commissioner, the plan to restrict Keke was initially scheduled for July 1, 2024. However, the enforcement date for the Keke and Okada restrictions has been postponed to August 1, 2024.
The commissioner said the introduction of CNG buses aims to bridge potential transportation gaps resulting from the impending restrictions.
His words:
"Keke and Okada operators will be encouraged to form cooperatives or clusters to access these buses.
"Our goal is to ensure seamless commuting for residents, especially during the period of restriction."
Why Abia postponed keke ban enforcement
Kanu explained that the postponement of the enforcement followed feedback from the public.
He added:
"As a responsive government, we have heeded the calls of Abians through various channels. Extending the enforcement by one month allows stakeholders ample time to prepare
"Preparatory measures, including the enumeration and registration of all commercial vehicles, tricycles, and motorcycles, commenced on July 1.
Installation of pumps for cheaper fuel increases
Legit.ng previously reported that since November last year, the deployment of dispensing pumps for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) has risen by 233%.
Michael Oluwagbemi, coordinator and chief executive of the Presidential Initiative on CNG (Pi-CNG), disclosed this as he addressed journalists at a Mikano International CNG Vehicle assembly plant tour in Ogun state.
Mikano has shown interest in deploying about 18 CNG pumps nationwide for widespread CNG adoption.
Proofreading by James Ojo Adakole, journalist and copy editor at Legit.ng.
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