The Federal Ministry of Transportation, under the leadership of Senator Said Alkali, has rolled out the 2024 Yuletide Road Transportation Palliative to support Nigerians traveling to celebrate Christmas and New Year with their families.
This initiative was announced by the Transport Ministry, Director, Press and Public Relations, Olujimi Oyetomi, in a statement released on Monday.
In a statement released by the Director of Press and Public Relations for the Ministry of Transportation, Olujimi Oyetomi, the government emphasized its commitment to ensuring smooth and affordable travel for Nigerians during the festive season.
The minister has directed key road transport unions, including the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), God is Good Motors (GIGM), and the Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria (ALBON), to actively participate in the scheme.
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These unions and transport providers have been instructed to deploy their palliative buses to designated loading points early on December 24, ensuring timely departures for passengers. The buses will offer discounted fares, with passengers paying only 50% of the usual cost, making travel more accessible for many Nigerians during this financially demanding time of year.
The initiative covers 144 routes nationwide, connecting Abuja and Lagos to all state capitals. However, for Anambra State, buses will terminate at Onitsha. The scheme utilizes a total of 708 vehicles, including luxury buses and standard transport vehicles.
For those traveling from Abuja, the departure point is Eagle Square, with daily take-off scheduled for 6:00 a.m. In Lagos, travelers heading to northern destinations will depart from Oshodi Terminal 3, while those heading south will use Oshodi Terminal 2. Luxury buses are also available for evening trips, departing between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
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To avoid overcrowding and potential delays, the Ministry has advised passengers to plan their trips carefully and avoid last-minute rushes, as the number of vehicles allocated for the palliative program is limited.
Minister Alkali expressed regret over the initial setbacks caused by logistical challenges, which have now been resolved. “This program is designed to bring relief to Nigerians during this special season, ensuring affordable travel options for all,” he stated. He also assured citizens that the Ministry is taking proactive steps to minimize travel inconveniences and enhance overall efficiency.
In addition to the road palliative, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has introduced free train rides across six corridors to further expand travel options. This complementary service aims to reduce travel costs and ease the burden on road transportation networks during the busy holiday period.
The NRC has released approved route maps and schedules to help Nigerians plan their trips seamlessly. With these initiatives, the government is prioritizing convenience and affordability for citizens traveling across the country during the festive season.
Running from December 24, 2024, to January 5, 2025, the 13-day palliative program demonstrates the government’s dedication to easing the burden of holiday travel. For many Nigerians, this initiative offers a reprieve from the high costs and logistical challenges often associated with holiday journeys.
By collaborating with road transport unions and the railway corporation, the Federal Ministry of Transportation has taken significant steps to ensure smoother travel experiences for Nigerians during the Yuletide season.