NGO, NEED to Governor Oborevwori: Introduce CNG Buses to Alleviate Transportation Burden in Delta
By: Celestine UkahÂ
Due to transportation challenges facing many in Delta, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Niger Delta Entrepreneurship and Economy Network (NEED), has urged the Delta State Governor, RT. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to introduce Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses as part of a public initiative to alleviate the transportation burden in the State.
NEED, in its open letter to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori sent to this news platform Wednesday October 1, 2025, signed by the National Coordinator Classics Oke Oteri, Tony Udaya, Delta State Coordinator, and Olubode Olumoye, National Publicity Secretary, respectively, said low-income earners, who form the majority in Delta State, mostly work and conduct small businesses in cities while residing in suburban areas. Due to high transportation costs, this group often ends up with little or nothing at the end of each month.
They noted that 30% to 50% of small and medium enterprises’ SMES earnings are spent on transportation alone, a situation they described as truly demoralizing.
Here’s the full statement:
AN OPEN LETTER TO THE GOVERNOR OF DELTA STATE
The Governor,
Delta State Government,
Government House,
Asaba, Delta State.
Cc: The Speaker,
Delta State House of Assembly,
House of Assembly Complex,
Asaba, Delta State.
ADVOCATING FOR CNG BUSES TO ENHANCE TRANSPORTATION IN DELTA STATE AS NIGERIA CELEBRATES 65 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE
Your Excellency,
We hope this letter finds you in excellent health and high spirits. We are writing as concerned citizens and entrepreneurs of our great state, deeply appreciative of your administration’s efforts to improve the quality of life for all residents and grow the state economy. Your commitment to addressing pressing issues has been commendable, and we are confident that our suggestion will align with your vision for a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous Delta.
As Nigeria joyously marks her 65th Independence Anniversary today, 1st of October 2025, a day declared a public holiday by the Federal Government, we reflect on our nation’s progress and look towards a brighter future. This milestone reminds us of the importance of unity, patriotism, and collective efforts toward national development, encapsulated in this year’s Independence theme: “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands On Deck”
The Transportation Challenge in Delta State As you are aware, transportation has remained a critical aspect of our daily living. Unfortunately, the current state of transportation in our state has become a cause for concern, especially in terms of productivity. Low-income earners, who form the majority in the state, mostly work and conduct small businesses in cities while residing in suburban areas. Due to high transportation costs, this group often ends up with little or nothing at the end of each month. Almost 30% to 50% of their earnings are spent on transportation alone – a truly demoralizing situation.
Moreover, business owners face challenges in securing competent employees due to transportation costs. Some settle for less qualified staff living close to their offices, impacting productivity. For instance, school owners might prefer hiring less competent teachers nearby because they can’t afford salaries factoring in transportation costs for more skilled teachers. Undoubtedly, teacher quality affects student outcomes; this issue extends to other sectors requiring skilled jobs.
Proposal for CNG Buses To alleviate this burden, we humbly propose that the Delta State government explores acquiring Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses as part of a public transportation initiative. CNG buses offer:
– Affordability: CNG is significantly cheaper than traditional fuels, reducing transportation costs. – Environmental Benefits: CNG is cleaner, producing fewer emissions, aligning with sustainability goals. – Economic Growth: Investing in CNG buses can create jobs in maintenance, fueling stations, and related industries.
Conclusion We trust this appeal will receive your kind consideration. Implementing CNG buses can transform transportation in Delta State, enhancing productivity, supporting economic growth, and improving citizens’ welfare. As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence, let Delta State embrace initiatives fostering progress.
Singed:
– Classics Oke Oteri National Coordinator, NEED
– Tony Udaya Delta State Coordinator, NEED
– Olubode Olumoye National Publicity Secretary, NEED
