The Federal Government revealed on Wednesday that it has implemented a 50% reduction in public transport fares for Nigerians.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, during a press conference in Abuja, the nation’s capital, discussing the presidential intervention in public transportation to mark the Yuletide season.
Alake stated that this intervention would be effective from Thursday, December 21, through January 4, 2024. He clarified that the special discounted holiday season fare applied to road transport, offering a 50% reduction in the current cost for luxury buses.
Additionally, all train services operating on their designated routes during this holiday season would be zero-fare.
However, the minister emphasized that air travel was excluded from this initiative, as the focus was on benefiting the masses. He mentioned that President Bola Tinubu approved this gesture as a demonstration of his care for Nigerians.
The intention is to enable people to travel to visit their loved ones and hometowns without the financial burden of high transport costs during this period.
Alake further conveyed that President Tinubu directed security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the military, to collaborate and ensure a safe holiday period without any security breaches across the country.
In concluding his statement, the minister wished all Nigerians a joyful holiday season and urged everyone to be law-abiding, security-conscious, and supportive of one another.
He emphasized the importance of celebrating in moderation while participating in the various social activities associated with the season.
