By Danladi Baruwa
Abuja, Nigeria
The Federal Government has officially launched the 2024 Yuletide Road Transportation Palliative to alleviate the travel challenges associated with the festive season,
Spearheaded by the Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali, the initiative offers a 50% discount on bus fares for Nigerians traveling between December 24, 2024, and January 5, 2025.
Speaking at the flag-off event, Alkali acknowledged the scheme’s late commencement due to logistical delays but assured Nigerians that all issues had been resolved. “This initiative is our commitment to ensuring that Nigerians can reunite with their loved ones during the festive season without undue financial burden,” he said.
The initiative, which operates in collaboration with key transport unions including the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), God Is Good Motors (GIGM), and the Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria (ALBON), is designed to ease movement across 144 routes nationwide.
For passengers traveling from Abuja, buses will depart from Eagle Square at 6:00 a.m. daily, while Lagos passengers can board from Oshodi Terminal 3 for northern routes and Terminal 2 for southern routes. Night buses from Oshodi will depart between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
With a fleet of 708 vehicles dedicated to the scheme, the Minister urged Nigerians to maintain order while taking advantage of the subsidized service. “Please avoid rushing or overcrowding. The limited number of vehicles necessitates patience and cooperation,” Alkali appealed.
The 13-day program is projected to move 288,644 passengers nationwide, averaging 17,588 individuals daily. Routes have been carefully planned to ensure coverage of all state capitals, except Anambra, where buses will terminate at Onitsha.
Adding to the festive travel relief, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) is offering 100% free train rides across six corridors, further expanding affordable travel options for citizens during the holiday season.
“The combination of subsidized bus fares and free train rides exemplifies the Federal Government’s commitment to easing the economic pressures faced by Nigerians during this period,” Alkali remarked.
Passengers looking to take advantage of the scheme must pay only half of the usual fare, a move that has been lauded by citizens as a timely and thoughtful intervention. “This gesture from the government will make it possible for many families to travel home for Christmas and New Year,” said a Lagos commuter preparing to board at Oshodi.
The Transportation Ministry has worked tirelessly with its partners to ensure the safety and efficiency of the program. Luxury bus operators and road transport unions have been directed to adhere strictly to safety standards and maintain punctual departures to avoid delays.
As the program rolls out, the Federal Government reiterates its commitment to making travel more affordable and convenient, underscoring the importance of family and community during the festive season. For many Nigerians, the 2024 Yuletide Bus Scheme is more than just a transportation initiative—it is a symbol of hope and solidarity in challenging economic times.
