...States to get subsidised transport fares, 50% discount on transport fare
The Road Transport Employees Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), along with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Association of Luxurious Bus Owners of Nigeria (ALBON), Good is Good Motors (GIGM), and the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), signed a Memorandum of Understanding to ensure the successful implementation of the program.
In order to mitigate the high cost of transportation during the festive season, the Federal Government’s transport palliative initiative is set to provide subsidized fares for travelers in 12 states, including Edo and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
However, RTEAN has released a fare list showing reduced prices for various destinations under the scheme, which runs from December 24, 2024, to January 5, 2025. Subsidized rates include:
Abuja to Asaba or Akwa: ₦17,500
Abuja to Abakaliki: ₦12,500
Abuja to Dutse: ₦7,500
Lagos to Benin: ₦7,500
Lagos to Onitsha, Katsina, or Lafia: ₦15,000
Lagos to Bauchi or Jigawa: ₦12,500
Lagos to Kebbi or Yola: ₦20,000
Confirming the initiative’s rollout, RTEAN’s National General Secretary, Yusuf Ibrahim, explained that the listed routes represent areas allocated to the union.
“At our designated parks, buses are either present or already en route to their destinations. In some states, we are loading nine or 12 buses daily, as directed. Once the quota is filled, subsequent travelers will pay the regular fare,” he said.
He added, “We are ready to expand to more routes but must adhere to the directives provided by the Ministry of Transportation.”
As of right now, only RTEAN and GIGM buses seem to be actively involved in the program, despite the federal government’s efforts. While other transport companies continued to charge full charges, GIGM buses were seen loading people at discounted rates during visits to Ogun’s Kuto garage and Lagos’ Oshodi Park.
Enahoro Okhae, the CEO of GIGM, attested to their participation. Our buses are available at the Oshodi terminal, and we have commenced as scheduled. Additionally, passengers can purchase tickets online,” he said.
This transport subsidy scheme, which also includes free rail services since December 20, 2024, emphasizes the Federal Government’s commitment to reduce the financial burden of travel for Nigerians
during the holiday period.
