By Mariam Okpe & Peter Jatau – Abuja
In a bold step aimed at mitigating the economic hardship following the removal of fuel subsidies, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has empowered 200 Nigerian youths in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tricycles.
The distribution, held on Democracy Day in Abuja, was part of a broader federal initiative to promote alternative and affordable energy sources. According to Mr. Nuhu Christopher, Deployment and Recovery Officer at PI-CNG Ltd, the scheme is designed to ease the burden of high transportation costs and the rising cost of living.
“President Tinubu is committed to cushioning the effects of the subsidy removal through the use of CNG, which is safer, cheaper, and more sustainable,” Christopher told journalists. “The goal is to gradually reduce the pressure on citizens by lowering transport, housing, and food costs.”
He revealed that the initiative, currently active in Lagos, Kwara, Plateau, and Kogi states, will soon be extended to Adamawa, Kaduna, Delta, and eventually all 36 states. He described the intervention as a “Democracy Day gift” to Nigerians.
Christopher also appealed to citizens to be more constructive in their criticism of government actions. “Nigeria belongs to all of us. Negative narratives harm our collective progress,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed Sani Hassan, National Chairman of the National Tricycle Owners and Riders Association (NATOMORAS), expressed gratitude for the 200 CNG tricycles allocated to the FCT. “This gesture is unprecedented. To show our appreciation, our members are giving back by offering free rides around the city today,” he said.
Hassan voiced confidence in the administration, stating that “with such initiatives, 2027 will be a smooth ride for President Tinubu.”
Comrade Bala Haruna, FCT Chairman of NATOMORAS, also lauded the president. “This is the most impactful intervention we’ve seen in the history of our association. Even during COVID-19 when we received ₦30,000 grants, it did not match the empowerment we’ve received today,” he remarked.
He confirmed that the tricycles will be distributed across major areas of Abuja, including Kubwa, Kabusa, Oshafa, Gaduwa, Gudu, Jabi-Lifecamp, Karmo, Jahi, Kado, and Kuchi. Haruna noted that the tricycles are being offered to members at a significantly subsidized hire-purchase rate—about 30% cheaper than conventional petrol tricycles.
“This initiative is not just about mobility; it’s about restoring dignity, creating jobs, and building a sustainable transport future,” he added.
As the distribution expands across the country, the federal government hopes the CNG initiative will contribute meaningfully to economic relief and environmental protection.
