The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has announced a significant reduction in transport costs, attributing a decrease of over 30% to its partnership with the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). During its 2026 Annual General Meeting held in Abuja, the association's National President, Yusuf Othman, emphasized that this collaboration not only lowers costs but also enables the expansion of the transport fleet, thereby enhancing mass transit operations across Nigeria. This reduction in fares is seen as a crucial step in relieving some financial burdens on commuters amidst ongoing economic challenges.

Othman highlighted that the deployment of several new vehicles under the CNG program is a direct result of their initiative, aimed at boosting operational capacity and providing safer, more affordable transportation options for Nigerian citizens. The association’s success in this regard is particularly noteworthy given the current economic difficulties facing the transport sector, which has often struggled with high operational costs and fluctuating fuel prices. The initiative represents a proactive approach to creating sustainable transport options that align with national energy policies.

Overall, this strategic partnership stands to benefit both the transport operators and the general public significantly. By lowering fares and increasing the fleet size, NARTO hopes to improve service delivery and accessibility of transportation services throughout the country. The implications are vast, as enhanced transport capabilities are essential for economic development and improving the quality of life for commuters in Nigeria.