The Enugu State Government is planning to introduce Compressed Natural Gas buses as part of its effort to reduce transportation costs and protect the environment.
This initiative is also supported by the creation of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, aimed at overseeing investments in the energy and mineral sectors.
These decisions were announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, and the Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Obi Ozor, after a State Executive Council meeting.
Prof. Onyia explained that the new ministry will manage the state’s energy and mineral resources. “The governor signed the Enugu State Electricity Law, and that law requires setting up an independent regulator. There will also be a supervising ministry to handle our engagements in the energy and mineral resource space,” he said. The ministry’s role includes overseeing investments in solid minerals and encouraging development in the energy sector.
Dr. Obi Ozor spoke about the state’s move towards introducing CNG buses, which offer a cheaper and more environmentally friendly alternative to petrol. He noted that the government is investing in CNG buses and building infrastructure to support their operation. “The Executive Council resolved that transitioning from petrol to CNG will save about half the cost of fuel in transportation, reducing costs for our people,” he said.
The state is also developing supporting infrastructure, such as bus terminals and shelters, and using technology to ensure the safety of commuters. “This is all about providing safe, affordable, and sustainable transportation,” Dr. Ozor added.
The government is already working with private sector partners like Greenville Energy and is constructing a large CNG mother station at Ugwu Onyeama. This station will serve the entire South East, and construction of smaller daughter stations, similar to fuel stations, will begin soon.
This move is part of a broader effort to make transportation more affordable and sustainable for the people of Enugu State.
