JUST IN: President Tinubu Announces 50% Reduction in Inter-State Transport Fares, Free Train Rides for Yuletide Travelers

In a bid to ease the financial burden on Nigerians during the festive season, President Bola Tinubu has given the green light for a significant 50% slash in inter-state transport fares from Thursday, December 21, 2023, to January 4, 2024. This decision aims to facilitate affordable travel for citizens celebrating the Yuletide.

Furthermore, commuters will benefit from free rides on all train services within the specified period, as confirmed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake. The announcement was made during a briefing with State House Correspondents at the Aso Rock Villa on Wednesday.

Minister Alake emphasized the collaborative effort between the Federal Government, the Ministry of Transportation, road transport unions, and the Nigerian Railway Corporation to ensure the seamless implementation of this special presidential initiative. He stated, “This special presidential intervention will commence tomorrow, Thursday, December 21, and it will end on January 4, 2024.”

While addressing the exclusivity of the initiative, Alake clarified that air travel is not included, as the primary focus is on providing relief to the masses. “The initiative is for the masses. Air is luxury. The masses don’t use air transport. So they are our main target,” he explained.

The stakeholders in the transportation industry, including transport unions and the Nigerian Railway Corporation, have been consulted and are fully aligned with the parameters set for the initiative. The Minister assured the public that all necessary arrangements are in place for the successful execution of this timely intervention.