A group of 128 travelers from Abuja, heading to northern cities like Gombe, Bauchi, Yola, and Maiduguri, benefitted from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for a 50% holiday discount on transport fares. Implemented on Christmas Day, this directive allowed travelers to pay only half of the regular transport fares to their destinations.

The Federal Ministry of Transportation’s Situation Room Monitoring Team observed the process at Abuja’s Area 1 Motor Park, where passengers were reimbursed on-site. Chief Clement Okuefuna, Chairman of the Association of Luxury Bus Owners (ALBON)’s Task Force, personally managed the 50% refund in cash before the buses departed. To ensure high-capacity vehicle availability, ALBON coordinated with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to supplement low-capacity services on northern routes.

According to a statement by Olujimi Oyetomi, four 16-seater buses began loading as early as 5 a.m. on Christmas Day for destinations such as Gombe, Bauchi, Yola, and Maiduguri. Each passenger received a refund of half their fare before departure. In total, eight 16-seater buses transported 128 passengers, all benefitting from the discounted fares. This holiday relief measure, effective until January 4, 2024, was received with enthusiasm by the passengers, some of whom expressed their support for President Tinubu with chants of “Jagaban, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, 4 plus 4.”

The President’s directive aims to bring relief to Nigerians during the festive season, fostering hope for a brighter future.