The Federal Government of Nigeria is embarking on a significant initiative to alleviate transportation challenges faced by citizens during the yuletide season. This multifaceted approach involves the deployment of 60 buses for free interstate travel and the expansion of an existing program utilizing compressed natural gas (CNG) to reduce transportation costs. The bus initiative is part of a broader free transportation program spearheaded by the Ministry of Transportation, designed to facilitate easier and more affordable travel for Nigerians returning home for the Christmas and New Year celebrations. This commitment to easing the burden of holiday travel reflects the government’s recognition of the importance of family reunions and the economic strain often associated with transportation costs during this period.
The 60 buses earmarked for this program will ply routes connecting Abuja to neighboring states, as well as major cities in the southwestern region, including Lagos, Ibadan, and Abeokuta. This strategic deployment aims to cover key travel corridors and cater to a substantial portion of the traveling public. The free transportation service will be available from the launch date until the beginning of the following year, providing an extended period of relief for commuters. This initiative complements the Nigerian Railway Corporation’s free train rides offered to 340,000 passengers, further solidifying the government’s commitment to accessible and affordable holiday travel.
The bus deployment represents a significant expansion of the existing mass-transit program already operational in Abuja and surrounding areas. Currently, 15 buses ply routes within Abuja and to nearby locations like Gwagwalada, Keffi, Nyanya, and Zuba in Niger State. The addition of 60 more buses signifies a substantial increase in capacity and coverage, extending the program’s reach to interstate travel and encompassing major cities in the southwest. This expansion reflects a proactive approach to addressing the anticipated surge in travel demand during the festive season.
Beyond the immediate relief provided by the free bus service, the government is pursuing a long-term strategy to reduce transportation costs through the adoption of CNG as an alternative fuel. This initiative involves converting vehicles, particularly those used by cab drivers, to CNG. The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) is spearheading this effort, aiming to have a significant number of conversions completed by the end of January 2025. This transition to CNG is expected to yield substantial cost savings for drivers and passengers alike, promoting affordability and sustainability within the transportation sector.
Agreements have been signed with transport unions to facilitate the conversion process and ensure the smooth implementation of the CNG program. These agreements encompass various aspects, including vehicle conversion targets and incentives for drivers who adopt CNG. The government anticipates that drivers who successfully meet the conversion benchmarks will be able to apply discounts by the end of January, further incentivizing the adoption of CNG and contributing to the overall reduction in transportation costs. This collaborative approach with transport unions underscores the government’s commitment to engaging stakeholders and ensuring the program’s success.
In essence, the Federal Government’s transportation initiatives for the yuletide season represent a dual approach: providing immediate relief through free bus and train services while laying the foundation for long-term affordability through the promotion of CNG. The deployment of 60 buses for free interstate travel addresses the immediate needs of holiday travelers, while the CNG conversion program aims to create a more sustainable and cost-effective transportation system in the long run. These initiatives demonstrate a comprehensive strategy to tackle transportation challenges and ensure accessible and affordable mobility for all Nigerians.
