Shuttlers, a Nigerian mobility startup, is driving change with the introduction of 20 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses to its fleet in the first quarter of 2025. This addition marks a step towards creating a more climate-friendly transportation solution. In just three months, the startup completed 1,484 trips with these new vehicles.
Damilola Olokesusi, CEO and Co-founder of Shuttlers, shared that the decision to switch to CNG wasn’t just about business but about making a positive impact for their customers and the environment. The shift has resulted in a 29% reduction in costs for riders and a noticeable drop in CO2 emissions.
The move comes at a time when CNG adoption is gaining momentum across Nigeria, largely spurred by the 2023 fuel subsidy removal and a significant hike in petrol prices. CNG, priced at ₦230 per litre, is considered more affordable and longer-lasting compared to petrol.
The Nigerian government has also introduced initiatives to encourage the shift, including a payment plan for converting petrol vehicles to CNG, a conversion app, and plans to distribute 2,000 CNG-powered tricycles to youths in the transportation sector.
Despite its benefits, the adoption of CNG has sparked safety concerns, with reports of explosions linked to converted vehicles. However, Shuttlers has taken steps to address these issues, ensuring the canisters used in its fleet are fireproof and equipped with automatic fire extinguishers. The company also conducts regular vehicle inspections to maintain safety standards.
Founded in 2016 in Lagos to address the city’s transportation challenges, Shuttlers has since expanded to other cities, raised $5.6 million in funding, and become a go-to transportation service for corporate workers across Nigeria.
