On Wednesday, the Federal Government announced a significant reduction in public transport fares for Nigerians, with a 50% discount, as revealed by the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, during a press conference in Abuja. The announcement was part of a presidential intervention in public transportation to mark the Yuletide season.

Minister Alake disclosed that the special discounted fares on road transport and zero fares on rail services would be in effect from Thursday, December 21, until January 4, 2024. This initiative aimed to ease the financial burden on citizens during their travels for the holiday season.

Starting Thursday, individuals desiring to travel could avail themselves of the 50% discounted fare on luxury buses, while train services on applicable routes would be provided at zero cost. Notably, air travel was excluded from the initiative, with the minister emphasizing its focus on benefiting the masses.

The minister conveyed that President Bola Tinubu had approved this gesture to demonstrate his love for Nigerians. The initiative aimed to enable citizens to travel to visit loved ones and hometowns without the usual financial strain associated with high transport costs during the festive period.

Minister Alake highlighted the commitment to ensuring a safe holiday season and mentioned that President Tinubu had directed security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the military, to collaborate and prevent security breaches across the country.

In his closing remarks, Minister Alake extended holiday wishes to all Nigerians and urged everyone to abide by the law, stay vigilant about security, and demonstrate goodwill to family, friends, and neighbours. He emphasized the importance of moderation while celebrating and enjoying the various social activities during the season.