The Federal Government has flagged off its 2024 Yuletide Road Transportation Palliative, aimed at providing affordable travel options for Nigerians during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali, announced the initiative in a statement on Monday through the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Olujimi Oyetomi.
Alkali directed major road transportation unions and operators, including the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), God is Good Motors, and the Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria, to ensure their designated palliative buses are at loading points by early morning on December 24, 2024.
“This initiative is designed to help Nigerians reunite with their loved ones across the country during this festive season,” Alkali said.
Alkali acknowledged initial delays in the scheme’s implementation due to logistical challenges, which he assured have now been resolved. The scheme will operate between December 24, 2024, and January 5, 2025, providing services on 144 routes across the country.
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“Nigerians in Abuja can board buses at Eagle Square from 6:00 a.m., while those in Lagos should use Oshodi Terminal 3 for northern routes and Oshodi Terminal 2 for southern routes,” Alkali explained.
He added, “Passengers intending to take advantage of this palliative will only pay 50% of the usual transportation cost. Luxury buses departing from Lagos will also have evening schedules between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. daily.”
The initiative, which includes 708 vehicles, is expected to ease the financial burden on Nigerians while ensuring safe and convenient travel options during the festive season.
Alkali urged Nigerians to maintain decorum, emphasizing the limited number of vehicles available. “We advise Nigerians to avoid unnecessary rushing to prevent unpleasant experiences. Adequate planning and adherence to the schedule will ensure a smooth travel experience,” he said.
The Minister highlighted that the Nigerian Railway Corporation is also providing free train rides during the festive season across six key corridors in the country. This initiative complements the road transport palliative, offering Nigerians multiple affordable travel options.
The Ministry of Transportation encouraged travelers to review the approved route maps and designated terminals for seamless travel planning. Special arrangements have been made for all state capitals, except Anambra, where the designated terminal will be Onitsha.
With the initiative set to run for 13 days, the government aims to reduce travel costs and improve the festive season experience for millions of Nigerians.