Lagos State Government has approved a N150 billion initiative to phase out dilapidated commercial vehicles and introduce new CNG-powered alternatives, as part of broader efforts to curb road accidents.
Gatekeepers News reports that the initiative was announced by Sola Giwa, Special Adviser to the Governor, during a meeting with national and state leaders of the Nigeria Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO).
Giwa explained that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has cleared the rollout of 2,000 CNG trucks under the scheme, noting that N50 billion from the fund is specifically earmarked for replacing worn-out trucks operating within the maritime corridor.
According to him, the project, implemented in partnership with the United Bank for Africa, will strengthen safety, protect lives and property, and reduce damage to government infrastructure.
He added that the state has also approved complimentary safety drug tests for truck drivers, alongside free eye screenings and eyeglasses for those who need them.
NARTO President, Alhaji Yusuf Lawal Othman, welcomed the programme and praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for his investment in the transport sector, including ongoing rail projects.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that contributions from the presidential CNG initiative have enhanced transportation services and helped reduce fares by 30 percent.
