The Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has announced free transportation services for citizens both within and outside the state.
The initiative, disclosed by the Commissioner for Transport, Davou Gyang, on Monday in Jos, is scheduled to run from December 23, 2024, and will cover intra-local government and inter-state travel.
“Governor Caleb Mutfwang, through the Ministry of Transport, has introduced a special mass transit programme for Christmas and New Year to assist Plateau residents and those returning home for the holidays,” Gyang said.
The commissioner revealed that free Metro Bus rides will operate across the Jos-Bukuru Metropolis from December 23 to 24, with extended routes beyond the usual service areas.
“For inter-local government travel, buses will depart from Plateau State Polytechnic and drop passengers at their respective Local Government Headquarters,” Gyang explained. “Two 18-seater buses will make eight trips daily on a first-come, first-served basis.”
Regarding inter-state travel, Gyang added: “Residents from North-East states like Bauchi, Borno, and Adamawa, as well as those from the North-West states of Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, and Jigawa, can travel to Jos from their respective state capitals under this programme.”
The free transportation service also includes return trips, scheduled for January 4 and 5, 2025.
“Passengers are encouraged to contact the leadership of Plateau State associations in their respective zones for smooth coordination,” the statement added.
Gyang emphasized that the programme is aimed at alleviating the economic challenges residents are currently facing. “This initiative is part of the governor’s commitment to supporting citizens during these tough economic times,” he said.