Transport costs: Cross River may miss Tinubu’s October 1 deadline – Commissioner

Cross River State is unlikely to meet the October 1, 2026, deadline set by President Bola Tinubu for reducing transportation costs, according to the state's Commissioner for Information, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham. The President had directed all states to utilize compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric vehicles to lower transportation expenses for citizens.

However, Cobham expressed doubt over Cross River's ability to implement the directive, citing fluctuating energy costs as a hurdle. The former Commissioner informed that the state invested in CNG and electric vehicles, but the project stalled after the initial investor's withdrawal. Cobham stated that the state now has a CNG station outside Calabar, but highlighted the instability of energy prices as another significant challenge.

When questioned about the government's claim, ADC governorship candidate Dr Effiong Nyong dismissed it, arguing that Cross River lacks a government-owned public transportation system. He maintained that privately owned commercial vehicles exist, and government pronouncements on cheaper transportation may only offer temporary relief.