The Enugu State Government is making significant strides towards introducing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses as part of its commitment to environmental preservation and affordable transportation for its citizens.
In tandem with this initiative, the government has established a new Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources aimed at overseeing and stimulating investment within the energy and mineral sectors.
This announcement came from Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government, and Dr. Obi Ozor, Commissioner for Transportation, following a recent meeting of the State Executive Council.
During the briefing at the Government House, Prof. Onyia highlighted that earlier in the administration, the governor signed the Enugu State Electricity Law, which mandates the creation of an independent regulator and a supervising ministry for energy and mineral resources. He stated, “Given the wealth of mineral resources in Enugu State, the Executive Council decided to create this Ministry, which will oversee investment opportunities in solid minerals and facilitate investment in the energy sector. This new Ministry will be operational immediately.”
Dr. Ozor elaborated on the introduction of CNG buses, emphasizing the construction of the necessary infrastructure to ensure operational efficiency and commuter safety. He noted the government’s efforts to invest in CNG buses while simultaneously encouraging private sector investments in transportation.
“The Executive Council determined it is crucial for the state and its citizens to transition from petrol to CNG, which can reduce fuel costs by about 50%, thus lowering transportation expenses for our people,” he explained.
These developments are part of a broader strategy to create a safe, affordable, and sustainable transportation system, which includes the construction of new bus terminals, improved shelters, and the incorporation of IoT technology in buses for enhanced safety.
The state is also focused on fostering a conducive environment for attracting investors in the CNG sector, having already partnered with Greenville Energy. Additionally, Dr. Ozor mentioned that the government is constructing a large CNG mother station at Ugwu Onyeama, designed to serve the entire Southeast region, with plans for ancillary daughter stations resembling traditional filling stations set to commence shortly.
