Tinubu approves 50% reduction in transport fare nationwide
President Bola Tinubu has sanctioned a 50 per cent reduction in the price of interstate travel for Nigerians journeying during the festive season from Thursday, December 21, 2023, to January 4, 2024.
This comes as the President has given the green light for free train rides for commuters during this period.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr Dele Alake, to State House Correspondents at the Aso Rock Villa on Wednesday.
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Alake said, “The President is announcing through us that, commencing tomorrow, December 21, Nigerians willing to travel can avail public transport via mini buses, luxury buses at a 50 per cent discount of the current cost, and all our train services on the routes the trains currently serve at no cost during this holiday season.
“This special presidential intervention will commence tomorrow, Thursday, December 21, and it will end on January 4, 2024.
“The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Transportation, will collaborate with transporters, road transport unions, and the Nigerian Railway Corporation to ensure smooth implementation of this special presidential initiative.”
Alake also mentioned that, “I can inform you that all the relevant stakeholders in that industry have been consulted and all the necessary frameworks have been put in place. The Minister of Transportation has full details and is fully prepared to execute this initiative.”
However, Alake clarified that air travel is not included in the initiative as it is tailored towards the masses.
“The initiative is for the masses. Air travel is considered a luxury and the masses do not use air transport. So, they are not the main target,” he explained.