Abuja, May 26, 2026
Student leaders from tertiary institutions across Northern Nigeria have advocated for the expansion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered transportation systems to universities to ease mobility challenges and improve access to academic activities.
The appeal was made during a summit organised by the Northern Project Coordination Office (NPCO), which brought together student union leaders from various higher institutions across the northern region.
Speaking at the event, Aliyu Idris, President of the Student Union Government at the University of Maiduguri, said the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) had provided significant relief to students facing financial difficulties.
He noted that the scheme had helped reduce dropout rates by easing the burden of tuition and living expenses on students and their families.
According to him, many beneficiaries now have better access to higher education opportunities they previously considered out of reach.
However, Idris raised concerns about inadequate transportation within the University of Maiduguri, stating that many students struggle to attend lectures, particularly early morning classes, due to mobility constraints.
He appealed for intervention from the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (Pi-CNG+EV), urging the introduction of transport solutions within university campuses.
Similarly, Tasiu Aminu, President of the Students’ Union Government at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, called for greater inclusion of tertiary institutions in national development programmes.
He stressed that affordability and reliable transportation remain key challenges affecting students, adding that initiatives such as the CNG and electric vehicle programme should be extended to campuses.
Aminu urged policymakers to ensure that universities are adequately captured in the implementation of such initiatives.
Responding, Ismaeel Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (Pi-CNG+EV), said the programme is already being implemented in several federal universities across the country.
He disclosed that about 20 universities are currently benefiting from CNG-powered transport solutions under the scheme, which commenced roughly three years ago.
Ahmed added that the initiative includes the provision of buses and tricycles to support movement within campuses and surrounding areas.
He explained that the programme is designed to complement government efforts in improving transportation and enhancing access to education.
He further assured that expansion to additional institutions is ongoing in phases, with more universities expected to benefit in the coming stages.