In Kaduna State, Nigeria, the introduction of Governor Uba Sani's Free CNG Mass Transit Scheme has brought significant relief to citizens. The scheme, launched on July 7, 2025, provides free transportation to all citizens using 100 brand-new CNG-powered buses. This initiative has become a vital social safety net, helping millions of people navigate the country's economic challenges. By removing transportation costs, the scheme has enabled workers, students, traders, artisans, and pensioners to allocate their resources to other essential needs.
The removal of petrol subsidy by President Bola Tinubu in 2023 had severe consequences, including increased transportation costs and rising prices of food, education, and healthcare. The economic adjustment disproportionately affected low-income families, workers, and students. In response, President Tinubu urged state governments to implement measures to cushion the effects of the reforms. Governor Uba Sani's administration in Kaduna State took decisive action, launching the free CNG bus scheme to support citizens.
The free CNG bus scheme has had a profound impact on the lives of Kaduna State residents. In 12 months, the scheme recorded over five million passenger journeys, saving commuters approximately ₦5.24 billion. This money has been redirected towards essential needs, such as food, education, healthcare, and business capital. The scheme's success lies in its ability to provide direct and transparent relief to citizens, one journey at a time.
Comrade Ayuba Magaji, Chairman of the Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), praises the scheme, describing it as "simply marvellous." According to Magaji, a state employee traveling from Maraban Rido to the Kaduna State Secretariat would typically spend at least ₦1,000 on a single journey. With the CNG buses, that worker can travel to and from work without paying a fare, saving money for other needs.
The free CNG bus scheme has been expanded to benefit all citizens, regardless of their profession, social status, or occupation. This approach acknowledges that economic hardship does not discriminate and that everyone needs support. By providing free transportation, the scheme has helped to redistribute relief directly to households, protecting livelihoods and demonstrating that government can bring compassion and imagination to economic reform.
The success of the free CNG bus scheme in Kaduna State serves as a model for other states in Nigeria. The scheme's impact extends beyond transportation, as it has helped to stimulate economic activity and improve the overall well-being of citizens. As the country navigates its economic challenges, initiatives like the free CNG bus scheme offer practical solutions to support citizens and promote sustainable development.
As the scheme continues to benefit citizens, it has become clear that Governor Uba Sani's administration is committed to prioritizing the welfare of Kaduna State residents. The free CNG bus scheme is a testament to the government's ability to respond to the needs of its citizens and provide innovative solutions to address economic challenges.
Key points
- Governor Uba Sani's free CNG bus scheme has saved citizens ₦5.24 billion in transportation costs.
- The scheme has benefited over five million passengers in 12 months.
- The initiative has helped to redistribute relief directly to households, protecting livelihoods and promoting economic development.
