Federal Government’s Yuletide Transport Subsidy Benefits 160,000 Passengers – Minister Alake

The transportation subsidy initiative implemented by the Nigerian government during the Yuletide season has been deemed a resounding success, as reported by Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake. The program, which entailed a 50 percent reduction in road transport fares and complimentary train rides, was intended to alleviate the financial strain on commuters during the holiday period.

In his capacity as Chair of the Committee on the Implementation of the End of Year Transportation Subsidy Programme, Minister Alake revealed that over 160,000 passengers nationwide had benefitted from the initiative. The initiative, sanctioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was launched on December 19, 2023, and encompassed cost-free transportation along Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) routes as well as a 50 percent subsidy on transport fares for passengers utilizing 30 bus routes operated by the Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria (ALBON).

Between December 21 and December 31, 2023, the NRC conveyed 71,000 passengers, while ALBON-operated buses transported 77,122 passengers. Additionally, 652 bus trips departing from Oshodi Interchange in Lagos catered to 15,766 passengers, effectively yielding a total of 163,878 passengers who benefited from the program within the initial 10 days.

Minister Alake conveyed his satisfaction with the program’s efficacy and solicited continued cooperation for return trips until Thursday, January 4, 2024, given that the initiative is still ongoing. He underscored President Tinubu’s attentiveness and care for the Nigerian populace, assuring that the government would oversee adherence and intervene as necessary to ensure the program’s success.

The triumph of the Yuletide transportation subsidy program reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the populace’s needs during festive periods. By offering substantial relief to commuters, the initiative not only mitigates the financial burden on individuals and families but also contributes to enhanced accessibility and mobility during the holiday season.

As the program persists, the government remains steadfast in its dedication to ensuring that the transportation subsidy reaches a wide array of individuals and that the resultant impact proves beneficial for the Nigerian people. With the backing and collaboration of diverse stakeholders, the government aims to uphold the triumph of the initiative and fulfill its duty to serve the public interest.

The substantial number of passengers who have reaped the benefits of the Yuletide transportation subsidy program underscores the positive implications of government interventions in addressing the populace’s needs. This successful initiative not only signifies President Tinubu’s dedication to the welfare of Nigerians but also establishes a commendable precedent for future programs geared towards providing fundamental support to the populace.