President Tinubu Approves Free Nationwide Transportation

President Tinubu Approves Free Nationwide Transportation for Christmas Season

In a bid to ease travel for Nigerians during the festive season, President Bola Tinubu has approved free nationwide transportation services ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations. This initiative is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to support citizens during the holiday period and facilitate seamless travel across the country.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, during a briefing with State House correspondents on Monday. The briefing followed a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.

According to Idris, the free transportation service will specifically cover train travel across the country and will run for a two-week period. The initiative is scheduled to commence on December 20, 2024, and will continue until January 5, 2025, ensuring Nigerians can travel conveniently during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The Minister emphasized that the decision reflects the government’s commitment to alleviating the economic challenges citizens face while fostering a sense of relief and support during the festive season. He added that the free train service aims to enhance accessibility, encourage family reunions, and reduce the financial burden of travel during the busy period.

Further details regarding the logistics and implementation of the initiative, including routes and schedules, are expected to be provided by relevant transportation agencies in the coming days. The announcement has been met with widespread anticipation as many Nigerians plan for travel during the yuletide.

This move aligns with the administration’s broader objectives of providing social relief and ensuring citizens can celebrate the holidays without added strain. By offering free transportation, the government hopes to not only promote joy and togetherness but also improve economic activity across states as families reconnect during the celebrations.

The Federal Government urges citizens to take full advantage of the free services while ensuring orderly conduct during travels to ensure smooth operations throughout the festive period.