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The 36 states Governors have dismissed allegations that state governments failed to properly account for funds received from the removal of fuel subsidy, insisting that such claims are unfounded.
The position was made known after the third meeting of the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) held at its secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday night.
Reading the communiqué on behalf of NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on Thursday, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri said the forum rejected suggestions that states had mismanaged or failed to account for subsidy savings.
Responding to questions on the issue, Diri said, “That cannot be true. We will leave that debate for another day.”
The governors also endorsed the proposed National Affordable CNG Transit Programme (NACTP), describing it as a practical measure to reduce transportation costs and cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians.
According to the forum, the programme will encourage states to support compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicle conversions, fleet expansion and related infrastructure while ensuring participating transport operators offer lower passenger fares.
The governors noted that high transportation costs remain a major driver of inflation, especially in the prices of food and other essential commodities.
Diri said the NGF would work with the private sector to increase the availability of CNG-powered vehicles across the country, stressing that gas is cheaper than petrol and would significantly reduce transport expenses.
He expressed confidence that lower transport costs would have a ripple effect on the economy by reducing the cost of moving people and goods.
The forum, however, said details of the financing and implementation framework for the programme would be worked out with its promoters before rollout.
The communiqué also revealed that the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, briefed governors on opportunities for state participation in CANEX Weekend 2026 and the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027, both scheduled to hold in Lagos.
Governors pledged to participate actively, saying the events would provide opportunities to showcase investment-ready projects, promote tourism and local exports, and connect small businesses with African and global investors.
The NGF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that stimulate economic growth, reduce the cost of living and improve the welfare of Nigerians.
