Zamfara Moves to Transform Transportation as Gov. Dauda Lawal Pushes CNG, Electric Vehicles Agenda

Zamfara State is taking another major step toward cleaner and more sustainable transportation as Governor Dauda Lawal deepens efforts to modernise the state’s transport system. Governor Dauda Lawal on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, received the Chief Executive Officer of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles, Barr. Ismaeel Ahmed, at the Zamfara State Government House in Gusau.

The meeting focused on expanding the CNG programme, promoting electric vehicles and developing affordable, clean and sustainable transportation solutions for residents.

During the talks, the Pi-CNG & EV CEO noted Zamfara’s strategic potential to become a major mobility hub for Nigeria’s Northwest and the wider Sahel region.

The proposed partnership would establish a Green Mobility Hub in the state, comprising: CNG refuelling facilities, EV charging stations and Vehicle conversion centres

The federal initiative has indicated it is ready to provide financing and technical support, potentially unlocking access to a $500 million fund for clean mobility equipment.

Zamfara has already made significant progress, with the state government procuring a large number of electric vehicles for public transportation and establishing charging stations to support their operation.

Governor Lawal confirmed the state has acquired 100 electric taxis and around 50 buses for public transport, alongside charging infrastructure. Test runs for CNG buses for students are also underway, while the Government House is set to become fully off-grid within weeks.

In a related push for human capital development, the state previously inaugurated an automotive training centre to equip youths with skills in CNG vehicle maintenance and mechatronics.

A central goal of the initiative is to reduce transport costs for residents. The Pi-CNG & EV is targeting a nationwide reduction in fares from October 1, 2026, with savings from cheaper fuel expected to be passed on to commuters.

Officials also underscored the need for infrastructure development along major transport corridors to ensure CNG is widely available, noting that “anything that is not available is not affordable.”

The latest engagement further signals Governor Lawal’s commitment to transforming mobility in Zamfara while embracing cleaner, more efficient and sustainable transportation with potential benefits for commuters, the environment and the state’s economy.