Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, has recently highlighted his administration’s initiative to address transportation issues faced by residents, particularly in light of the recent removal of fuel subsidies. During a formal event, he announced the plans to procure CNG-powered buses that are expected to significantly ease transportation challenges within the state. This was unveiled during the inauguration of ten CNG buses that had been secured by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Kano State Branch. The governor emphasized that this move is part of a broader strategy to modernize transportation infrastructure in the state and support the daily commuting needs of citizens, particularly those reliant on public transport.
In a statement conveyed through his spokesperson, Sanusi Tofa, Yusuf disclosed that his administration would convert 30 out of 80 luxury buses that had been previously purchased by the former administration but had remained dormant. These buses will be adapted for CNG utilization to serve the public effectively. Furthermore, the governor also mentioned that the remaining 50 buses would augment the existing fleet dedicated to transporting students to and from schools. This dual approach of using previously procured buses while introducing new CNG vehicles underscores his focus on efficiency and sustainability in urban transport.
Governor Yusuf extended his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, acknowledging the provision of easy-to-maintain CNG vehicles to all 36 states. This support aims to alleviate the transportation strains resulting from the removal of fuel subsidies. In addition, Yusuf expressed appreciation for the NLC’s proactive measures, using Kano State as the starting point for the deployment of these new buses. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with labor unions to promote mutual understanding and reiterated his administration’s commitment to enhancing public transport options for citizens.
In his exposition of future plans, Yusuf announced the establishment of a fully equipped CNG Service Centre intended to ensure the optimal maintenance of these vehicles. He expressed his administration’s willingness to provide land for the construction of a dedicated Nigeria Labour Congress Institute in Kano and promised to lay the foundation stone shortly, urging various stakeholders to contribute to its development. These initiatives illustrate the governor’s dedication to not only providing transportation solutions but also fostering educational opportunities for labor organizations.
NLC President Joe Ajaero, who was present during the bus inauguration ceremony, lauded Governor Yusuf’s dedication to the prompt implementation of the N71,000 minimum wage. He called upon other state governors to adopt similar labor-friendly practices while warning of potential consequences for those who fail to comply with the approved wage increment. The collaborative spirit between the government and labor unions was also voiced by Kano State NLC Chairman, Kabiru Inuwa, who urged the development of the NLC Institute at the proposed site.
In a further demonstration of his commitment to worker welfare and collaborative governance, Governor Yusuf hosted the NLC’s national and state executives for a dinner at the Government House. His representative, Commissioner for Information Baba Dantiye, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the labor leaders who attended the event. This gathering highlighted the governor’s determination to work closely with labor organizations as part of a unified effort to enhance the living standards of citizens, demonstrating a shared vision for the welfare of workers in Kano State and beyond.
