Lagos to deploy CNG buses, introduce biogas for public transit

The Lagos state government will deploy buses powered by compressed natural gas (CNG) in the last quarter of this year, according to an announcement by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) on July 18.

LAMATA also plans to introduce biogas as an alternative fuel for public transit buses to reduce emissions, aligning with the Lagos state government’s goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

To establish an implementation framework for alternative fuels, LAMATA held a stakeholder engagement programme where the final report of the assessment and feasibility study of alternative fuels for public transportation was presented. The study, conducted by international development firm CPCS Transcom in collaboration with Nexant Consulting and funded by SwedFund, examined various alternative fuel options and identified biogas as the most viable choice.

The biogas plant will utilise feedstock sources such as sewage from treatment facilities, organic waste from households and markets, slaughterhouse waste, and animal manure. The project includes stages such as feedstock acquisition, transportation, storage and processing, biogas production, and integration with the public bus system.

LAMATA's managing director, Abimbola Akinajo, referenced a recent visit to Linkoping, Sweden, and highlighted biogas adoption as a significant step towards a more sustainable Lagos.