The Road Transport Employees Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) has announced a revised fare structure reflecting the Federal Government’s 50% transport subsidy for 12 states.
RTEAN is one of five transport unions collaborating with the government on the initiative, aimed at easing travel costs for Nigerians during the holiday season. Other participants include the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Association of Luxurious Bus Owners of Nigeria (ALBON), GIGM (God is Good Motors), and the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO).
The agreement, formalized in a Memorandum of Understanding, covers travel from December 24, 2024, to January 5, 2025. It coincides with the government’s introduction of free rail transportation from December 20, 2024.
The National General Secretary of RTEAN, Yusuf Ibrahim, confirmed the adjusted fare schedule. “If you visit any of the designated parks, you will find out that our buses are either present or have left for their state of destination,” Ibrahim said.
The subsidized fare list includes routes such as Abuja to Asaba or Akwa at N17,500, Abuja to Abakaliki at N12,500, and Abuja to Dutse at N7,500. Other examples are Lagos to Benin for N7,500, Lagos to Bauchi for N12,500, and Lagos to Kebbi for N20,000.
Ibrahim emphasized that the union is adhering to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Transportation. “Just as seen on that list, those are parts of the routes given to us… Once we get to that quota, other persons will board the vehicles at normal prices,” he explained.
However, a visit to transport hubs such as Oshodi in Lagos and Kuto in Ogun revealed that only GIGM buses were actively operating under the subsidy scheme. Other operators appeared to be charging regular fares.
GIGM’s Chief Executive Officer, Enahoro Okhae, confirmed their participation. “We have started, and you will find our buses at the Oshodi terminal. Passengers can also book their tickets online,” he said.
Efforts to reach leaders of other unions for comments were unsuccessful, as the presidents of NURTW and ALBON did not respond to calls or messages.
(PUNCH)
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