Tinubu’s CNG low-fare directive stalls, NNPC claims hit N11.2tn, other top stories

President Bola Tinubu's directive for reduced transport fares through Compressed Natural Gas-powered buses has yet to take effect, according to a recent report by PUNCH Online. Despite the implementation deadline of October 1, commuters in various states continue to pay the same or even higher fares. Transport unions in certain states claim they have not received CNG buses, while motorists express concerns over insufficient refuelling facilities and conversion centers.

Meanwhile, public service workers, organized under the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council, have initiated a three-day warning strike for economic and mental hardships faced by workers and their families. The strike, set to end on Sunday, October 4, demands measures to mitigate the impact of rising costs, including fuel price cuts, wage increases, and negotiations for a new national minimum wage.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) reported a significant rise in oil security claims to N11.2tn in 2025, exceeding the N7.13tn energy security expense recorded in 2024. The higher claims, which include expenses related to securing oil and gas assets, represent both energy security costs and other receivables from the Federation, rather than entirely new cash expenditures incurred in 2025.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, an African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, has criticized President Tinubu's claim of Nigeria entering an era of prosperity. Atiku argues that economic growth figures have not translated into improved living conditions for many Nigerians, citing the impact of fuel subsidy removal, taxation, and other economic reforms on households and businesses.