The Edo state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has approved a three-month extension of the free transport service implemented by the state government, initially introduced on September 11, 2023, for a two-month period to alleviate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government.
Operated by the state-owned Edo City Transport Services (ECTS), the free transport service covers all intra- and intercity routes in the state. Inter-city routes include Auchi, Igarra, Ibillo, Ososo, Uzebba, Ikhin, Otuo, Abudu-Ubiaja, Abudu-Urhonigbe, Ewohimi to Ewatto, while the intra-city routes cover Ramat, Kingsquare, New Benin, Ekenwan Road, Airport Road, Sapele Road, Adesuwa, Ogida, Upper Mission, Ugbowo, Agbor Road, Upper Sokponba, and Aduwawa.
The extension, which runs until February 2024, aligns with the government’s commitment to ensuring sustained support for Edo residents amidst the economic challenges posed by the fuel subsidy removal.
Managing Director of Edo State Transport Authority (ESTA), Mrs. Edugie Agbonlahor, expressed satisfaction with the success of the initial two-month phase that saw 1,536,904 individuals benefiting from the scheme, including 33,480 inter-city commuters and 1,503,424 intra-city passengers.
She said, “To cushion the impact of the Federal Government’s fuel subsidy removal on the people of Edo State, His Excellency, the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has graciously approved the extension of the free bus service by three months.
“With the extension, the free transport scheme will now end in February 2024, ensuring sustained support for the Edo residents amid the economic realities occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal.”
“The Edo State Government encourages residents to take advantage of this continued transportation palliative even as we explore all necessary measures to ease the economic burdens imposed by the fuel subsidy removal policy of the Federal Government.”
The extension of the free bus scheme comes as a great relief to those traveling to their hometowns during the Christmas season, easing the financial burden of transportation costs.
