The federal government has officially flagged off the 2024 yultide subsidized road transportation services across Nigeria with over 700 vehicles to convey passengers from Abuja and Lagos to other state capitals across the country.
Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Ahmed Alkali while speaking at the flag-off in Abuja on Tuesday the 24th of December 2024, said the fifty per cent subsidy on road transportation is aimed at ensuring seamless travel for citizens for the festive season.
The subsidy is arranged in such that passengers boarding from designated parks pay only 50% of the regular fare, ensuring affordability.
The road services are projected to move 288,644 passengers over 144 routes, while rail services are expected to convey 320,000 travellers during the 13-day period, making a total of 608,644 passengers
The subsidy covers both road and rail operations, and it is scheduled to run from December 24, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Adeleye Adeboye, Alkali reiterate that the government’s is commitmented to facilitating affordable and accessible travel during the holidays.
He expressed gratitude to Tinubu for prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians through policies designed to reduce the financial burden of transportation.
“This initiative, under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, demonstrates the government’s unwavering dedication to supporting Nigerians during the festive season,” Adeboye stated.
He disclosed that the road Transport Operations woukd be carried out with over 700 vehicles, including hybrid buses, are deployed to convey passengers from Abuja and Lagos to state capitals across Nigeria, except Anambra (Onitsha).
The Rail Services was already operational since last week and has been projected to transport 20,000 daily for the said time.
To ensure a smooth operation, a centralized fare system has been adopted in order to eliminate the challenges experienced in previous years. Return trips are also fully accounted for, allowing passengers to easily travel back to Abuja or other destinations.
The representative of the Road Transport Employers of Nigeria (RTEAN), Muhammad Abubakar, commended the federal government for the initiative and pledged that the various road transport unions would ensure a smooth sailing of the initiative.
“This initiative allows families to reconnect during the holidays, something many could not afford in previous years. We are honoured to contribute to this national effort,” Abubakar remarked.
The RTEAN pledged its full support in delivering quality service and ensuring Nigerians travel comfortably and safely during the festive season.
Abuja, boarding points include Eagle Square, while Lagos operations are centralized at the Oshodi Bus Terminal. Designated parks in other state capitals will facilitate inter-state travels.
