Christmas: FG Subsidizes Transport Cost for 144 Routes, Ensures Road Safety - Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has announced a pivotal initiative by his administration to subsidize road transport costs on 144 routes across Nigeria during the Christmas period. This move aims to ease travel for Nigerians during the festive season, ensuring that transportation is both secure and convenient.

In his Christmas message, signed by his Media Aide, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended heartfelt greetings to Christians in Nigeria and worldwide, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ as narrated in the Holy Scriptures.

Tinubu emphasized that "Christmas embodies the fulfilment of divine prophecy and symbolizes the triumph of love, peace, and unity." He highlighted that this season serves as a poignant reminder that light can emerge even in the darkest times, bringing solace and hope to people of all faiths. The president expressed optimism about Nigeria's path to restoration and progress, urging citizens to renew their hope and belief in a prosperous future.

The government has taken steps to ensure that transportation routes are secure and convenient, providing free train services alongside the subsidized road transport costs.

Tinubu assured travelers of safe journeys during the festive period, stating, "For those travelling during this festive period, I wish you safe journeys. Rest assured, the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure our transportation routes are secure and convenient."

In addition to the transport subsidies, the Federal Government rolled out 708 vehicles to facilitate interstate travel, halving fares for travelers from major cities like Lagos, Abuja, Owerri, and Port Harcourt. This initiative, which commenced on December 24, 2024, will run until January 5, 2025, allowing Nigerians to benefit from reduced travel costs during the Yuletide.

The scheme was executed in partnership with key transport stakeholders, including the National Union of Road Transport Workers and the Association of Luxurious Bus Owners of Nigeria.

Despite initial funding challenges from the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Transportation, led by Said Alkali, managed to sort out logistical issues to ensure the scheme's successful implementation. Passengers intending to take advantage of the Yuletide Road Transportation Palliative are required to pay only 50% of the usual fare, with operations commencing daily at 6:00 a.m. from designated terminals in Lagos and Abuja.

President Tinubu also addressed recent tragic events in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja, expressing deep sadness and offering sympathies to affected families. He prayed that such misfortunes do not revisit communities and urged Nigerians to extend kindness to those facing difficulties, emphasizing that "kindness transcends financial status."

Furthermore, Tinubu commended Nigerian troops for their bravery in safeguarding the nation, calling for prayers and support for both the troops and national leaders. He concluded his message by encouraging Nigerians to serve the country diligently and strive for prosperity, reinforcing the spirit of unity and compassion during the Christmas season.