Fuel subsidy removal: Ogun govt to inaugurate electric trucks, motorbikes
Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun said on Tuesday that the state would soon inaugurate trucks and motorbikes powered by alternative sources of energy.
Abiodun stated this while declaring open the 18th National Council of Transportation conference, held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta.
The theme of the conference was ”Enhancing Innovations and Technologies for Sustainable Transportation: Tackling the Energy Challenges.”.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Transportation, Olugbenga Dairo, said that the state had continued to set the pace for sustainable transportation systems with the use of alternative sources of energy.
He said that the theme of the conference was apt as the nation was currently facing a serious energy challenge, occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidies.
He noted that the removal of subsidies on fuel had a spiral effect on the cost of transportation and other associated utilities.
“Ever since the Federal Government rolled out plans for the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Project, the state has taken the initiative by rolling out CNG-compliant vehicles.
“These vehicles will support a green environment and ease the transportation burden faced by the public.
“Transportation with other alternative sources of energy, which include electric trucks and motorbikes, would soon be launched in the state,” he said.
Abiodun noted that the Multi-Modal Transport Master Plan of the state had created a vista of opportunities for residents and travellers and had enhanced business developments across all strata.
He enjoined delegates to build on the potentiality inherent in the cross-fertilisation of ideas, innovations, and technologies.
The governor said that at the end of the conference, states across the country would have developed a new model for arresting the energy crisis, and the nation would be better for it.
In his address, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Michael Oloruntola, expressed appreciation to the state government for hosting the conference.
Oloruntola said that the conference sought to uphold the prioritisation of innovative technologies that enhanced affordability, accessibility, safety, security, and environmental sustainability.
He urged that deliberations at the conference should tilt towards sustainable transport development, which would enhance the welfare of Nigerians by creating job opportunities and stimulating economic growth.
