The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the extension of the free bus scheme implemented by the state government initially introduced in September 2023 to cushion the impact of the fuel subsidy removal for two months.
However, due to its resounding success, benefiting over 1.5 million Edo people, the governor extended the palliative program until February 2024. And now, with another extension granted, the free transport scheme will continue to bring relief to the people until April 2024.
Operated by the State-owned Edo City Transport Services (ECTS), the scheme covers all intra and intercity routes such as Auchi – Igarra – Ibillo – Ososo, Uzebba – Ikhin – Otuo, Abudu – Ubiaja, Abudu – Urhonigbe, or Ewohimi to Ewatto, the free bus transportation will provide convenient travel options for the people.
Within the city, the free bus scheme serves numerous routes such as Ramat – Kingsquare, New Benin – Kingsquare, Kingsquare – Ekenwan Road, Kingsquare – Airport Road, Kingsquare – Sapele Road, Kingsquare – Adesuwa, Kingsquare – Ogida, New Benin – Upper Mission, Kingsquare – Ugbowo, Kingsquare – Agbor Road, Kingsquare – Upper Sokponba, New Benin – Ugbowo, and New Benin – Aduwawa.
The Managing Director of Edo State Transport Authority (ESTA), Mrs. Edugie Agbonlahor, in a statement, expressed the government’s commitment to the welfare of the Edo people.
She emphasized that the extension of the free bus scheme is a testament to this commitment, providing ongoing support and relief to the people during challenging times. With the approval to run until April 2024, the scheme will continue to benefit the residents of Edo State, making transportation more accessible and affordable for all.
She said, “The continuation of the free bus service until April 2024 has been generously authorized by His Excellency, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State. The administration’s decision is based on the positive feedback and success of the five-month program, and it is an extension of its commitment to the welfare of the Edo people, particularly in light of the current economic difficulties brought on by the suspension of gasoline subsidies by the federal government.
“The Edo State Government sincerely thanks the people of Edo State for their unwavering support and cooperation during the free bus program’s implementation period, which has resulted in the program’s enormous success to date. The government also pledges to continue working to improve people’s livelihoods and lessen their burdens despite the challenging economic conditions.”
