President Bola Tinubu has granted approval for a 50% reduction in interstate transport fares for Nigerians traveling during the yuletide season from December 21, 2023, to January 4, 2024. Additionally, the President has authorized free rides for commuters on all train services within this period. The announcement was made by Mr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, at the Aso Rock Villa on Wednesday.
Alake stated, “Nigerians willing to travel can board public transport, including mini-buses and luxury buses, at a 50% discount of the current cost. All train services on the routes the trains currently serve will be available at zero cost during this holiday season.” The special presidential intervention will be in effect from December 21, 2023, to January 4, 2024.
The Ministry of Transportation, in collaboration with transporters, road transport unions, and the Nigerian Railway Corporation, will coordinate the implementation of this initiative. Alake emphasized that all relevant stakeholders in the transportation industry have been engaged, and the necessary preparations are in place for effective execution.
Air travel is excluded from the initiative, with Alake explaining, “The initiative is for the masses. Air is luxury. The masses don’t use air transport. So they are our main target.”
