The Lagos State Government has commenced plans to phase out diesel-powered buses from its regulated public transportation system.

Under the new directive, the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) will no longer approve diesel buses for operators under the state’s regulated bus scheme.

It was gathered that going forward, operators seeking to add new buses to their fleet for regulated services will only be allowed to deploy buses powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EVs).

The policy is part of Lagos State’s broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions, cut air pollution, and modernize its public transport system in line with global climate-friendly standards.

It also aligns with the Federal Government’s Presidential CNG Initiative, which seeks to promote cheaper and cleaner alternative fuels for transportation following the removal of petrol subsidy.

LAMATA, which coordinates and regulates public transportation in Lagos including the BRT scheme and the Blue and Red Line rail services, is expected to enforce the new directive across all regulated routes and corridors.

Sources within the transport sector said existing diesel buses will be allowed to continue operations for now but will be gradually phased out, while all new approvals will be strictly for CNG and electric buses.

In recent months, the state government has increased investment in CNG refueling stations, conversion centres and electric bus pilot programmes to support the transition.

Transport stakeholders believe the move, if effectively implemented, will reduce operating costs for operators, lower transport fares in the long term, and significantly improve air quality in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital and most populous city.