Shuttlers, a Nigerian shared-mobility startup, has added 20 compressed natural gas (CNG)—powered buses to its fleet, reducing commuter costs by at least 29% and cutting carbon emissions by 23.5 metric tons in the first quarter of 2025.
For Lagos commuters, fuel prices are a constant stress and this change brings a welcome relief. “This move wasn’t just a decision—it was about making a real impact for us, our customers, and the environment,” said Damilola Olokesusi, CEO of Shuttlers.
The startup, which enables professionals to book shared transport via its mobile app, is working to ensure sustainable mobility in Nigeria.
Beyond cost savings, the CNG fleet has improved service availability. In Q1, these buses completed 1,484 trips, moving 19,292 passengers—4% of Shuttlers’ total user trips.
Commuters have reported smoother rides and better seat quality, reiterating the startup’s focus on both sustainability and passenger comfort.
On the environmental front, switching to CNG has enabled Shuttlers to prevent the release of nearly 24 metric tons of CO₂. If this trend continues, the company expects to cut 94 metric tons annually—greatly lowering its carbon footprint in Lagos’ notoriously polluted transport sector.
As with any alternative fuel, there are issues about CNG safety. Many Nigerians worry about explosions, leaks, and structural risks. Olokesusi addressed this directly: “The CNG canisters are fireproof and equipped with automatic fire extinguishers that activate instantly in the rare event of a fire.”
She added that the company’s quality assurance team conducts regular inspections to ensure compliance with strict safety standards. So far, every trip taken in a CNG vehicle has been incident-free.
Shuttlers is looking ahead to expanding its fleet with more CNG and electric vehicles in the coming months. With expensive fuel prices, the startup’s push for cleaner, more affordable transport would greatly bolster mobility in Lagos.
For commuters seeking a balance between cost, convenience, and sustainability, Shuttlers’ transition to CNG-powered transport may be the beginning of a much-needed change in Nigeria’s urban mobility sector.
