In a significant move to improve Nigeria’s transportation sector, the Federal Government has taken delivery of 70 hybrid Jet Mover buses from the Nigerian automobile manufacturer, Jet Motor Company. The buses, which operate on both compressed natural gas (CNG) and premium motor spirit (PMS), are part of efforts to provide more affordable and comfortable transportation options for Nigerians.
The handover ceremony took place at Jet Motor Company’s plant in Ajah, Lagos State, with officials from the Ministry of Finance and representatives of the Presidential Initiative for Compressed Natural Gas in attendance.
Dimas Hamidu, the Technical Assistant to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, commended the quality of the vehicles and praised Jet Motor Company for its work. He highlighted that the introduction of these hybrid vehicles aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to easing the challenges brought on by the removal of fuel subsidies.
“These vehicles will significantly help in meeting the transportation needs of citizens and cushioning the impact of rising costs on the economy,” Hamidu stated. “I am pleased with what I have seen here. This initiative will go a long way in alleviating the pain and suffering of the people due to the removal of the fuel subsidy.”
Hamidu also revealed that the Federal Government had awarded contracts for the supply of CNG vehicles to various companies. The Ministry of Finance conducted a tour of the factories to ensure that the vehicles met the contract specifications and would be delivered promptly.
Derek Ewelukwa, Managing Director of Jet Motor Company, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s transportation sector. He explained that each hybrid vehicle is equipped with two CNG tanks with a combined capacity of 220 liters, allowing them to cover up to 300 kilometers, along with an 80-liter petrol tank. He assured that the CNG tanks have a lifespan of 15 years and that the vehicles can seamlessly switch between gas and petrol.
The delivery of these hybrid buses is seen as a crucial step toward improving transportation infrastructure in Nigeria, with the potential for further deliveries in the near future.
