The Federal Government, through the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, has launched the distribution of 2,000 CNG-powered tricycles aimed at empowering Nigerian youths.
The initiative was announced at the Old Parade Ground in Abuja on Tuesday, coinciding with Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebrations.
During the event, Michael Oluwagbemi, Project Director of the P-CNGi, emphasized that this distribution fulfills President Bola Tinubu’s promises to lower transportation costs, boost economic well-being, promote environmental sustainability through clean fuel, and create job opportunities for the youth.
Oluwagbemi revealed that the CNG tricycles were fully assembled in Shagamu, and noted that the initiative is expected to generate employment in the operations, maintenance, and deployment of these vehicles nationwide.
“We are proud to deliver on Mr. President’s promise with these 2,000 CNG-powered tricycles, which are set to lay the foundation for this transformative movement. Not only are they assembled here in Nigeria, but over 50 young people have been trained in the assembly process, with more training sessions to come,” he stated.
He further highlighted that the initiative represents a crucial step toward a future fueled by gas, aimed at harnessing Nigeria’s abundant resources to create wealth and job opportunities for its citizens.
Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, the Minister for Youth Development, noted that these tricycles will significantly address transportation challenges faced by citizens and transporters alike. She praised the Tinubu administration for its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for young Nigerians.
“These tricycles will greatly alleviate transportation issues across the country, serving as a vital intervention during this period of economic reform. This initiative demonstrates the government’s dedication to improving the living standards of our youth,” she remarked.
Additionally, she mentioned that the National Youth Investment Fund will provide essential financial support for young investors in the transportation sector, as the ministry aims to collaborate with the P-CNGi to achieve a target of two million tricycles.