As we hand over the new buses, it is our hope and expectations that more routes would be opened and fares dropped for interested passengers
By Henry Ibya, Makurdi
Benue State governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, has commended President Bola Tinubu-led federal government for introducing the banquet of palliatives from which his administration has used to address transportation issues, which his government considered palliative to the people’s needs.
Alia who gave the commendation during the official handing over ceremony of 100 buses purchased by his administration, held at the headquarters of Benue Link’s NiG Ltd, yesterday, in Makurdi, said the initiative by Mr. President has assisted Benue government to purchase the buses, expressing optimism that the buses would no doubt ease transportation challenges among Benue populace and other travelers.
He said purchase of the 100 unit of buses was in fulfilment of his earlier campaign promises to Benue people that his administration would provide vehicles to move passengers and goods at cheaper rates, adding that his administration is eagerly awaiting the federal government’s Compressed Natural Gas, CNG, powered buses to boost efforts of his administration in the transport sector.
The governor expressed delight that before the arrival and handover of the buses, management of the company had been proactive by identifying and opening up new routes to reach more towns and villages across the state, describing the development as commendable.
“As we hand over the new buses, it is our hope and expectations that more routes would be opened and fares dropped for interested passengers”, the governor revealed, stating that government desired that farmers, market men and women, civil servants and indeed all Benue residents have better traveling experiences with the unleashing of the new buses.
The governor equally disclosed that what informed government’s decision to purchase the buses as a palliative strategy to cushion the harsh effects of removal of fuel subsidy was due to the importance of transportation in contemporary life as it enhances economic growth, and appealed to management of the company to ensure that all drivers handling the buses are qualified, professional.
He also urged management to be very strict in monitoring activities with a view to checking arbitrary hike in fares, overloading and possible disregard for traffic rules and regulations.
In his remarks, general manager, Benue Link’s NiG Ltd, Alex Fanafa, promised to sustain the gesture of government by ensuring increase in the number of vehicles and commended Governor Alia for the procurement of the buses.