LOKOJA: The Kogi State Government has announced that preparations are complete for the launch of an intra-city bus service to improve transportation within the Lokoja metropolis. This new initiative aims to enhance mobility for residents and is expected to commence operations in the first week of June.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Victor Atuluku, revealed that the state administration, under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Ododo, has allocated funds in the 2025 budget for acquiring new buses for the service. In the interim, efforts are being made to refurbish some unused buses acquired during former Governor Idris Wada’s administration. The refurbished buses, which have been equipped with new suitable engines, are anticipated to begin operations within two weeks, facilitating better movement within Lokoja prior to the arrival of new buses.
Atuluku also highlighted that the Confluence Express service is currently operating a fleet of buses on routes from Okene to Lagos, Kano, Jos, and several local government areas within the state, with a recent extension to Ayingba Town in Dekina LGA. He emphasized Governor Ododo’s active oversight of the Ministry of Transportation, assuring residents of imminent improvements in transportation services.
Regarding the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses introduced by the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas in 2024, Atuluku noted that these buses were returned to the lead consultant, Mono Energy, for operations. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the initiative for the Conversion Incentive Programme, which aims to convert 10,000 vehicles to CNG at no cost, benefiting transport unions and tricycle operators in Kogi.
Furthermore, Atuluku mentioned the receipt of four boats from the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission to enhance transportation in the riverine local government areas of Kogi State.