In a move to enhance transportation in Ogun State, Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has announced an exciting initiative aimed at supporting local transporters.
The state will be introducing 100 brand new 18-seater Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses for use by transport unions.
This decision comes as part of a broader effort to ensure fair pricing in public transportation, especially during times of fuel price fluctuation.
Partnership with the Federal Government on CNG Buses
Governor Abiodun shared that the Federal Government is also playing a significant role in this development.
Over the next week, Ogun State will receive 20 additional CNG-enabled buses from the Federal Government, along with 500 conversion kits that will allow vehicles to switch to CNG.
These conversions will be carried out at the state's conversion center, which serves as a key hub for the Southwest.
This initiative aims to provide transporters with more fuel-efficient options and ease the financial burden caused by fuel price increases.
Meeting with Transport Unions
The governor's announcement came during a meeting with various transport unions to address the rising transport fares linked to recent hikes in fuel prices.
Governor Abiodun noted that anytime fuel prices increase, transport fares tend to rise dramatically, often disproportionate to the actual fuel cost adjustment.
The meeting was an opportunity for dialogue on how to keep transportation costs fair for the people of Ogun State.
New Enforcement Committee
To further address the issue of fare hikes, Governor Abiodun has inaugurated an enforcement committee.
The committee includes key figures such as the State Police Commissioner, DSS officials, TRACE representatives, and heads of transport unions.
Together with representatives from the Ministries of Transportation and Trade and Investment, the committee will work to ensure transporters maintain reasonable fare levels, even in the face of changing fuel prices.
Addressing Fuel Price Hikes
The governor acknowledged the federal government’s efforts to mitigate the effects of recent fuel price hikes under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
While fuel price increases have placed a strain on transporters and commuters alike, the government’s energy transition program, including the introduction of CNG buses, is part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on expensive petroleum products.
Encouraging Sensible Fare Adjustments
Governor Abiodun urged transport unions to avoid unreasonable fare hikes, emphasizing that a 30% increase in fuel prices should not translate into fare hikes exceeding the same percentage.
He pointed out that previous pump price increases have led to excessive fare hikes, which disproportionately affect commuters.
By keeping fare increases in line with fuel cost changes, transporters can help alleviate the burden on the public.
Voices from the Transport Sector
The Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, echoed the governor’s sentiment, reminding transporters that fuel is only one part of their overall operational costs.
He encouraged them to keep fares affordable for the residents of Ogun State.
The State Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, also weighed in, stating that the recent increase in the price of PMS does not justify the sharp rise in transport fares seen in some areas.
Transport Unions Respond
Speaking on behalf of the transport unions, Prince Samsudeen Apelogun, the National President of ACOMORAN, praised Governor Abiodun’s efforts to modernize the transport sector.
He cited the creation of the Ministry of Transportation and the introduction of the E-mobility program as key achievements.
Apelogun pledged to work with other transport stakeholders to implement a more reasonable fare structure that benefits both transporters and commuters.
This commitment marks a step toward ensuring fair and manageable transport costs for everyone in Ogun State.
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