The Federal Government has unveiled a 50% reduction in interstate transport fares for Nigerians traveling to celebrate Christmas and New Year. This initiative, announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aims to ease the financial burden on citizens during the festive season.
Details of the Initiative
In a statement released on Thursday, Olujimi Oyetomi, Director of Press and Public Relations for the Ministry of Transportation, confirmed the development.
“To commence the 2024 Yuletide road transportation, passengers will board buses to their destinations for only 50% of fares, as declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement read.
The initiative forms part of a broader transportation palliative designed to support Nigerians during the holiday period.
Key Stakeholders and Signing Ceremony
The signing ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Adeleye Adeoye.
The agreement involves key transportation stakeholders, including:
- National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW)
- Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN)
- Association of Luxurious Bus Owners of Nigeria (ALBON)
- God Is Good Motors
Scope of the Fare Reduction
Under this arrangement, travelers departing from major cities such as Abuja and Lagos (Oshodi) to various destinations nationwide will enjoy a 50% reduction in transportation costs.
This measure is expected to provide significant relief to Nigerians amid rising economic challenges, ensuring affordable travel for families and individuals during the Yuletide season.