In a bid to ease the financial burden on ordinary Nigerians during the Christmas season, the Federal Government has unveiled five transport companies and 28 routes that will participate in the approved 50 percent fare cut.
The announcement came after President Bola Tinubu granted approval for the subsidy, facilitating affordable travel for commuters between December 21, 2023, and January 4, 2024.
The selected transport companies include GIG (God is Good), Chisco Transport, Young Shall Grow, God Bless Ezenwata, and Area Motor. Contrary to initial reports indicating the participation of luxury buses, the updated list includes companies operating both luxury and mini-buses.
The 28 routes covered by the fare subsidy aim to cater to the travel needs of Nigerians during the festive period. The routes encompass major cities and destinations, fostering accessibility for citizens seeking to connect with their loved ones.
They routes include: “Lagos-Kano, Lagos-Abuja, Lagos-Kaduna-Zaria, Lagos-Jos, Lagos-Enugu, Lagos-Onitsha, Lagos-Owerri, Lagos-Aba, Lagos-Abakaliki, Lagos-Nsukka, Lagos-Uyo, Lagos-Port Harcourt, Onitsha-Kano and Onitsha-Lagos.
Others are Onitsha-Jos, Onitsha-Abuja, Onitsha-Sokoto, Onitsha-Gombe, Onitsha-Zakibiam, Port Harcourt-Owerri-Aba-Kano, Aba-Owerri-Abuja, Aba-Lagos, Abuja-Sokoto, Abuja-Lagos, Abuja-Onitsha-Owerri-Port Harcourt, Abuja-Enugu/Abakaliki, Abuja-Gombe and Abuja-Kano.
The decision to extend the fare cut to include mini-buses demonstrates the government’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that a broader spectrum of transport options benefits from the subsidy.
Special Adviser to the President on Communications and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, shared the details on his social media platform, providing transparency and clarity on the participating transport companies and routes.
This initiative aligns with the government’s goal to alleviate the financial strain on citizens during the yuletide season, particularly among the Christian faithful.
As Nigerians prepare to celebrate Christmas, the 50 percent fare cut is anticipated to contribute to a more joyous and affordable travel experience for families and individuals across the country.