The [Coalition of Nigerian Artisan Associations (CONAA)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artisan) urged operators of compressed natural gas (CNG) transport vehicles in Lagos on Tuesday to reduce their fares to levels below those charged by petrol‑powered services, while simultaneously declaring its endorsement of [President Bola Tinubu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bola_Tinubu) for the 2027 general elections.
Chief Segun Ajibulu, Director‑General of CONAA, made the appeal during a press briefing titled “2027 Elections: The Role of Artisans in Electoral Politics.” He condemned CNG drivers who charge the same price as petrol drivers, calling the practice dishonest and insisting that the cost advantage of gas should be passed on to passengers.
> “There is no way those who are using CNG should be charging the same amount > as those who are using petroleum. The problem we have in this country is > dishonesty,” Ajibulu said.
Ajibulu also asked Nigerians to be patient with the Tinubu administration, expressing confidence that the nation would soon enjoy economic prosperity after enduring tough reforms. “We are entering the time of prosperity; we have already paid the price. Let’s give it another year,” he added.
**Why is the 2027 election considered pivotal?**
Ajibulu argued that the upcoming poll will matter not only for Nigeria but also for Africa and the wider international community because of the country’s large population and strategic continental position.
He acknowledged ongoing challenges such as corruption, terrorism, poverty, unemployment and inadequate housing, but maintained that the current government needs more time to address problems that have built up over decades.
The director‑general highlighted several government initiatives that, in his view, justify CONAA’s support for Tinubu and Vice‑President Kashim Shettima. These include actions to improve security, the backing of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), steps toward state policing, higher oil‑revenue remittances and major road‑building projects.
Among the infrastructure schemes he cited were the Lagos‑Calabar Coastal Highway and proposed Lagos‑Sokoto and Calabar‑Enugu highways, which he believes will boost economic activity and create new opportunities for artisans.
**What is the stance of the Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association?**
The President of the [Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association (NATA)](https://www.nata.org.ng), Comrade Samuel Odewale, represented by Comrade David Ajetunmobi, explained that some CNG operators keep fares high because they are repaying loans taken to convert their vehicles. “Some of the drivers borrowed loans and they want to pay, and also there are not many stations,” he said, pointing to limited CNG refuelling infrastructure as an additional hurdle.
Ajibulu concluded by urging artisans to take an active role in the electoral process and to evaluate the administration’s performance before casting their votes.