Journalists Inspect Akwa Ibom’s New CNG Buses As Government Counters Procurement Allegations
State Government Emphasises Transparency in Public Procurement
IN an effort to reinforce public confidence in government spending and infrastructure delivery, the Akwa Ibom State Government has opened its newly procured Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to independent verification by journalists.
The exercise followed concerns and public speculation questioning whether the buses recently acquired under the state’s transportation reform programme were genuinely new or refurbished vehicles.
Responding to a request from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, government officials organised a physical inspection at Government House, Uyo, allowing media representatives unrestricted access to the vehicles and project documentation.
Officials Present Procurement Details
Leading the inspection, Commissioner for Information Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah explained that Governor Umo Eno approved the purchase of 50 factory-built CNG buses manufactured in Turkey.
He disclosed that 20 buses have already been delivered, while the remaining units are scheduled for delivery in two additional batches over the coming months.
According to him, every aspect of the procurement process was documented, enabling the government to provide verifiable evidence regarding the origin, manufacturing history and technical specifications of the vehicles.
Officials stressed that the buses were purpose-built for Akwa Ibom State rather than imported as second-hand or converted vehicles.
Transportation Reform Targets Sustainable Mobility
Government officials said the CNG buses represent only one component of a broader transport modernisation programme.
The initiative also includes new passenger terminals, transit stations in all local government areas, maintenance depots, training centres for drivers, CNG refuelling infrastructure and an integrated operational system intended to improve public transportation throughout the state.
The programme aligns with wider national efforts encouraging the adoption of compressed natural gas as an alternative fuel capable of reducing transportation costs and supporting cleaner energy solutions.
Technical Verification Supports Government Position
Transportation Commissioner Dr. Anthony Luke said he personally monitored production and inspection activities at the Isuzu manufacturing facility in Turkey before the buses were shipped.
His account was reinforced by Alpha Dias Project Limited Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Alexandro Selefteriadis, who stated that the fleet consists of factory-manufactured CNG buses powered by original Cummins gas engines.
He explained that no diesel-to-CNG conversions were involved, adding that the transport system under development is intended to provide reliable connectivity across Akwa Ibom’s 31 local government areas, commercial hubs and the Victor Attah International Airport.
Media Inspection Highlights Accountability
NUJ Chairman Mr. Nsibiet John praised the government for encouraging independent verification rather than relying solely on official statements.
According to him, giving journalists direct access to inspect the buses, question officials and review available information strengthens public accountability while enabling factual reporting on government projects.
Members of the media later toured the fleet, examined the vehicles, interacted with consultants responsible for the project and participated in a demonstration ride.
Public Procurement Under Increasing Scrutiny
The inspection reflects a growing trend in public administration where governments seek greater openness in procurement processes to address public scepticism and enhance institutional credibility.
Analysts note that independent verification of major public projects has become increasingly important in strengthening transparency, reducing misinformation and promoting trust between governments and citizens.
For Akwa Ibom State, officials argue that opening the procurement process to public scrutiny demonstrates confidence in the integrity of the project while positioning the CNG transport initiative as a significant investment in sustainable urban mobility and improved public transportation.
