Travelers have lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu 50 percent subsidized holiday transport services across the country .
The initiative which was officially flagged off by the Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Ahmed Alkali, is aimed at ensuring seamless travel for citizens for the festive season.
It covers both road and rail operations and is scheduled to run from December 24, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Blueprint observed that travelers were seen at the Eagles Square in Abuja, boarding the transport services to their various destinations which was officially flagged off by the Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Ahmed Alkali.
A traveler, Madam Juliet Okoli, boarding the transport service to Lagos state said the initiative is very laudable considering the economy cash crunch in the country.
“I am happy that I can travel to Lagos at a cheaper rate to spend the Christmas celebration with my family and I urged the Federal Government to do more for Nigerians by reducing the fuel price to as low as N300 to N400,” she said.
Another traveler, Joseph Akor who couldn’t hold his excitement lauded the federal government for the transport service initiative and urged the transport unions to make it accessible for all Nigerians.
In 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.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Adeleye Adeboye, emphasized the government’s commitment 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 Honorable Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, demonstrates the government’s unwavering dedication to supporting Nigerians during the festive season,” Adeboye stated.
Road Transport Operations: Over 700 vehicles, including hybrid buses, are deployed to convey passengers from Abuja and Lagos to state capitals across Nigeria, except Anambra (Onitsha).
Rail Services: Already operational since last week, the railway network is projected to transport 20,000 passengers daily.
Subsidized Fares: Passengers boarding from designated parks pay only 50% of the regular fare, ensuring affordability.
Passenger Projection: Road services aim to move 288,644 passengers over 144 routes, while rail services are expected to serve an additional 300,000 travelers during the 13-day period.
To ensure a smooth operation, a centralized fare system has been adopted, eliminating the discrepancies experienced in previous years. Return trips are also fully accounted for, allowing passengers to easily travel back to Abuja or other destinations.
The government’s decision to deploy hybrid vehicles running on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and conventional fuel demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to cost reduction and sustainability. While challenges persist with CNG availability along certain routes, adequate refueling arrangements have been made to ensure uninterrupted service.
Representing the Road Transport Employers of Nigeria (RTEAN), Muhammad Abubakar commended the Federal Government for this initiative.
He highlighted the pivotal role of transport unions in implementing the program and applauded the President for his proactive measures to alleviate the hardships caused by the removal of the petroleum subsidy.
“This initiative allows families to reconnect during the holidays, something many could not afford in previous years. We are honored 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.