By Mohammed Ishaku
Abuja| Nigeria
The Federal Government of Nigeria has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with major transport unions to implement a 50 percent discount on road transport fares nationwide. This initiative, directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is part of the government’s broader palliative efforts to cushion the economic strain faced by citizens during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The agreement was formalized in Abuja, where the Minister of Transportation, Sa’id Alkali, was represented by Permanent Secretary Adeleye Adeoye during the MoU signing ceremony. The Federal Government collaborated with key transport stakeholders, including the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), the Association of Luxurious Bus Owners of Nigeria (ALBON), and God is Good Motors (GIGM).
Addressing attendees at the event, the Permanent Secretary emphasized that the initiative aims to ensure affordable and accessible transportation for Nigerians traveling to reunite with loved ones during the festive season. He noted that buses operating from major terminals, including Abuja and Lagos’ Oshodi transport hub, will offer passengers a 50 percent reduction on fares to various destinations across the country.
“This is a deliberate effort by the Federal Government to make the Yuletide celebrations less financially stressful for Nigerians,” Adeoye said. “We recognize the challenges many citizens face during this period, and this agreement ensures that travel, which is often a necessity at this time of year, is affordable.”
The MoU signing follows President Tinubu’s earlier directive for transportation palliatives as part of his *Renewed Hope Agenda*. The initiative is designed to support citizens amidst rising inflation and economic challenges, particularly during a season when demand for travel significantly increases.
The 50 percent fare reduction applies to buses operated under the NURTW, RTEAN, ALBON, and GIGM, which collectively manage a large portion of Nigeria’s inter-state transportation network. This collaboration between the government and private sector operators highlights a shared commitment to improving the welfare of citizens.
The Permanent Secretary also reassured travelers of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the safety and efficiency of road travel during the festive period. He urged passengers to take advantage of the discounted fares, plan their journeys early, and adhere to safety protocols to ensure a smooth travel experience.
“Beyond affordability, we are working closely with transport unions to ensure that safety and comfort are prioritized on all trips. Travelers can expect organized services from Abuja, Lagos, and other major terminals to their various destinations,” Adeoye added.
This road transport initiative complements the Federal Government’s recent provision of free train rides for passengers during the Yuletide. Together, these efforts underscore the government’s strategy to alleviate travel costs and improve mobility for millions of Nigerians during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.
Reacting to the agreement, leaders of the participating transport unions praised the government for its proactive approach to addressing citizens’ needs.
The National President of the NURTW, Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya, commended the government for prioritizing the welfare of travelers, assuring that union members will fully comply with the agreement to ensure its success.
“This partnership with the government is a welcome development,” Akinsanya said. “It shows that the government truly understands the importance of making transportation affordable, especially during a season when families want to come together.”
Similarly, representatives of ALBON and GIGM pledged their commitment to implementing the fare discounts across all designated routes, promising an organized and fair ticketing system to accommodate the anticipated surge in travelers.
With this initiative, millions of Nigerians traveling for Christmas and New Year celebrations will benefit from reduced transport fares, marking a major relief during the economically demanding holiday period.
By prioritizing citizen welfare and fostering partnerships with the private sector, the Federal Government has demonstrated its resolve to support Nigerians and ensure a smoother, more affordable festive season for all.
