The program will cover 144 routes, with 708 vehicles deployed. Key routes include Abuja and Lagos to all state capitals, except Anambra State, which will operate from Onitsha.
Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Government has announced the commencement of its 50 per cent interstate transport fare reduction, effective today, December 24, 2024. This initiative is designed to ease transportation costs for Nigerians traveling during the festive season.
Under the scheme, travelers from major cities, including Lagos, Abuja, Owerri, Port Harcourt, and Kaduna, will benefit from reduced fares. The program, which will run until January 5, 2025, also includes free rail transportation that began on December 20, 2024.
The scheme, which was initially scheduled to start on December 20, 2024, faced delays due to funding challenges from the Ministry of Finance. The Minister of Transportation, Said Alkali, acknowledged the delay, attributing it to logistical issues that have now been resolved.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Transportation, the initiative is a collaboration with major road transport stakeholders, including the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), and the Association of Luxurious Bus Owners of Nigeria (ALBON).
The program will cover 144 routes, with 708 vehicles deployed. Key routes include Abuja and Lagos to all state capitals, except Anambra State, which will operate from Onitsha. Specific allocations include:
- God is Good Motors (GIGM): 4 routes
- ALBON: 32 routes
- NURTW: 22 routes
- RTEAN: 12 routes
Designated Terminals and Timing
Travelers in Abuja will depart from Eagle Square, while those in Lagos can access the service from Oshodi Terminal 3 (Northern routes) and Oshodi Terminal 2 (Southern routes). Daily departure times are set for 6:00 a.m., although some luxury buses will operate from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Speaking on the initiative, the CEO of God is Good Motors, Enahoro Ekhae, confirmed that their buses are ready for operations, with booking options available via their online app. GIGM buses will operate from Eagle Square in Abuja and Oshodi Terminal in Lagos.
Minister Said Alkali expressed optimism about the scheme, emphasizing its importance in reducing travel costs for Nigerians during the Yuletide season. He urged the participating transport unions and companies to ensure buses are stationed at designated points early to facilitate smooth operations.
The scheme aims to alleviate transportation burdens for Nigerians during the festive season, with the Federal Government footing 50 per cent of passengers’ travel costs.
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