Nigeria: Lagos Bars New Diesel Buses From Regulated Fleet, Mandates Cng, Electric Vehicles

The Lagos State Government has prohibited new diesel-powered buses from entering its regulated public transport system, mandating operators to adopt compressed natural gas (CNG) or electric vehicles instead. The initiative aims to gradually replace the diesel fleet with cleaner alternatives. According to Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, Managing Director and CEO of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), the policy came into effect at the start of 2026 and is part of broader efforts to reduce transport emissions and control escalating operating costs.

With diesel prices spiking from around N950 per litre at the beginning of the year to between N1,950 and N2,100 per litre, the move is expected to alleviate pressure on fares and contribute to Lagos' goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. LAMATA currently operates about 150 CNG buses and high-capacity and medium-capacity electric buses.

The recent arrival of 20 additional high-capacity CNG buses will bolster the CNG fleet, potentially serving the Ikorodu-Tafawa Balewa Square route due to high passenger demand. Despite the transition, regulated public transport fares remain unchanged, allowing LAMATA to manage fuel expenses without burdening commuters. The policy aligns with the Lagos State Transport Policy, aiming for 52 percent of Bus Rapid Transit buses to run on clean energy by 2050.

The strategy involves procuring cleaner vehicles, prioritizing routes, and implementing cleaner-fuel strategies across public transport modes. At the federal level, the shift towards CNG and electric vehicles aims to lower transport costs and enhance access to alternative fuels.