Tinubu declares cost-free train travel for Nigerians in anticipation of the forthcoming Christmas and New Year festivities.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared complimentary train journeys for Nigerians during the Christmas and New Year festivities. The free train rides will be available nationwide from Thursday, December 21, to January 4.
The announcement was made by Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, during a press briefing at the Presidential Villa Abuja.
Alake revealed that a committee, chaired by him, had engaged with various transportation bodies across Nigeria.
The government will subsidize 50% of the transportation cost based on the prices at the time of the meeting. Notably, air transportation is excluded from this arrangement, as the focus is on benefiting the masses.
In a comprehensive statement, Alake conveyed Tinubu’s commitment to easing the financial burden of travel for Nigerians during the festive season.
The President acknowledges the recent surge in inter-state transportation costs and aims to enable citizens to travel within Nigeria without the added stress of high transportation expenses.
Starting from December 21, a special discounted holiday fare will apply to road transport, offering a 50% reduction in minibuses and luxury buses. Additionally, all train services on existing routes will be free of charge throughout the holiday season.
This presidential intervention is set to conclude on January 4, 2024, with the Ministry of Transportation collaborating with transporters and relevant agencies to ensure a seamless implementation.
President Tinubu has directed security agencies to collaborate and ensure a safe holiday period across the country. The appeal is for citizens to be law-abiding, security-conscious, and to extend goodwill to family, friends, and neighbors.
While celebrating, Nigerians are urged to do so in moderation. On behalf of President Bola Tinubu, the statement conveys wishes for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Source:
IntelRegion
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