The Federal Government, through the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, has commenced the distribution of 2,000 CNG-powered tricycles aimed at empowering Nigerian youth.
The initiative was launched during a ceremony held at the Old Parade Ground in Abuja as part of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary celebration.
At the event, Michael Oluwagbemi, Project Director of the P-CNGi, stated that the distribution of the tricycles fulfills President Bola Tinubu’s promise to reduce transportation costs, promote cleaner energy, and create jobs for young Nigerians.
“This initiative is a step toward making transportation more affordable, while also creating jobs and improving the environment by using clean fuel like CNG,” he said.
He further emphasized that the tricycles were assembled locally in Shagamu, Ogun State, with over 50 young Nigerians trained in the assembly process. “We are proud to announce that these tricycles were fully assembled in Nigeria by young people, and this is just the beginning.
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Thousands more jobs will be created not only for operators but also for those involved in maintenance and distribution across the country,” Oluwagbemi added.
The CNG-powered tricycles are part of a broader effort to harness Nigeria’s abundant natural gas resources for economic growth. Oluwagbemi noted that the initiative is a small but significant step in transforming gas into a resource that will generate wealth and employment for Nigerians.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, highlighted the positive impact the tricycles will have on transportation. “These tricycles will help alleviate transportation challenges for both drivers and passengers.
This initiative demonstrates the administration’s commitment to improving the quality of life for Nigerian youth during this period of economic reforms,” she said.
Dr. Bio-Ibrahim also mentioned that the National Youth Investment Fund will support young investors in the transportation sector, and the ministry aims to work with P-CNGi to reach its goal of distributing 2 million CNG-powered tricycles across the country.
This initiative is seen as a crucial intervention to ease transportation difficulties while boosting economic opportunities for young Nigerians.
