Jubilation As FG Flags Off Free Transport Nationwide
In a move to ease transportation challenges during the festive season, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Transportation, has officially flagged off its subsidised holiday transport services for Nigerians.
The initiative, aimed at ensuring seamless travel for citizens, covers both road and rail transports and is scheduled to run from December 24, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Speaking at the flag-off in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Adeleye Adeboye, emphasised the government’s commitment to facilitating affordable and accessible travel during the holidays.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for prioritising 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.
For road transportation, over 700 vehicles, including hybrid buses, have been deployed to convey passengers from Abuja and Lagos to state capitals across Nigeria, except Anambra State where drop-off point is Onitsha.
While rail services have already been operational since last week, with the railway network projected to transport 20,000 passengers daily.
The train service is free for the period while passengers boarding the buses from designated parks pay only 50% of the regular fare, ensuring affordability.
The road services aim to move 288,644 passengers over 144 routes, while rail services are expected to serve an additional 300,000 travellers during the 13-day period.
In Abuja, boarding points include Eagle Square, while Lagos operations are centralised at the Oshodi Bus Terminal. Designated parks in other state capitals will facilitate inter-state travels.
To ensure a smooth operation, a centralised 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 demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to cost reduction and sustainability. While challenges persist with CNG availability along certain routes, adequate refuelling arrangements have been made to ensure uninterrupted service.
Representing the Road Transport Employers of Nigeria (RTEAN), Muhammad Abubakar commended the Federal Government for the initiative.
He highlighted the pivotal role of transport unions in implementing the programme and applauded the President for his proactive measures to alleviate the hardships caused by the removal of the petrol 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.
The flag-off event marked a significant step toward alleviating travel-related challenges for Nigerians during the holiday season. With over 600,000 beneficiaries expected, the initiative reflected the government’s commitment to fostering unity and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
