For the umpteenth time, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu told Nigerians that his administration was placing the country on a promising path of restoration and progress.
The president, who said this in his 2024 Christmas message, described the season as a time of reflection, hope and unity.
He expressed confidence in the country’s ongoing restoration and progress.
“Let us extend similar support and prayers to our nation’s leaders. With your backing, we can serve our country diligently and strive for prosperity.
“Nigeria is on a promising path of restoration and progress, with every indication pointing toward a bright future. In the spirit of this season, let us renew our hope and belief in a prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
The president emphasised the significance of Christmas as a symbol of triumph over adversity, adding that “light can emerge even in the darkest times, bringing solace and hope. This belief resonates with people of all faiths.”
…On stampedes
The president also acknowledged the challenges Nigeria faced, particularly the recent tragedies in Ibadan, Okija and Abuja.
Extending his condolences to affected families, the president urged Nigerians to draw strength from their faith and remain united in their resolve to overcome adversity.
He also urged Nigerians to embrace compassion and kindness, emphasising that “kindness transcends financial status.”
“Recent tragic events in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja deeply sadden us, and our thoughts are with those who continue to suffer from these heart-breaking incidents.
“We earnestly pray that such misfortunes do not revisit our families and communities and that the lives of innocents are never again cut short.
“I offer my deepest sympathies to the families enduring pain and loss this year, whether from floods, fires, or accidents. May we all find comfort and solace in our faith, the support of loved ones, and the abiding presence of Jesus Christ. Our compassionate and merciful God stands with the weak, the broken-hearted, and the sick.
“As we celebrate this blessed season, let us be mindful of those facing difficulties. They are not far from us—our neighbours, family members, and the people we encounter daily, whether in places of worship, markets, offices, or boardrooms.
“Kindness transcends financial status. Those with modest means and those with abundance need a smile or a word of encouragement,” he said.
…Salutes the armed forces
The president also paid tribute to the nation’s armed forces, whom he described as “brave troops risking their lives to safeguard our nation.”
He called on Nigerians to offer prayers and unwavering support for the military, as well as for leaders working towards national prosperity.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians, the president outlined measures aimed at easing the festive season for citizens, including free train services and subsidised road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide.
“For those travelling during this festive period, I wish you safe journeys. Rest assured, the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure our transportation routes are secure and convenient.
“We also provide free train services and subsidized road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide to ease your travels. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a joyous and prosperous New Year,” he said.
…Travelers laud holiday transport services
Similarly, travellers lauded President Tinubu’s 50 percent subsidised holiday transport services across the country.
The initiative flagged off by Minister of Transportation Sen. Said Ahmed Alkali, was aimed at ensuring seamless travel for citizens for the festive season.
It covers both road and rail operations and scheduled to run from December 24, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Blueprint observed that travellers were seen at the Eagles Square in Abuja, boarding the transport services to their various destinations after the flag-off.
A traveller, Madam Juliet Okoli, boarding the transport service to Lagos state, described the initiative as very laudable considering the economy and cash crunch in the country.
“I am happy that I can travel to Lagos at a cheaper rate to spend the Christmas celebration with my family and I urged the Federal Government to do more for Nigerians by reducing the fuel price to as low as N300 to N400,” she said.
Another traveller, Joseph Akor, who couldn’t hold his excitement, commended the federal government for the transport service initiative and urged the transport unions to make it accessible for all Nigerians.
In Abuja, boarding points include Eagle Square, while Lagos operations are centralised at the Oshodi Bus Terminal.
Designated parks in other state capitals will facilitate inter-state travels.
Also speaking, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Transportation Adeleye Adeboye emphasised the government’s commitment to facilitating affordable and accessible travel during the holidays.
He expressed gratitude to the president for prioritising the welfare of Nigerians through policies designed to reduce the financial burden of transportation.
“This initiative, under the leadership of the Honorable Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, demonstrates the government’s unwavering dedication to supporting Nigerians during the festive season,” Adeboye stated.
He said: “For the road transportation, over 700 vehicles, including hybrid buses, are deployed to convey passengers from Abuja and Lagos to state capitals across Nigeria, except Anambra (Onitsha).
For the rail services which had been already operational since last week, the railway network is projected to transport 20,000 passengers daily.
“And in the area of subsidy, passengers boarding from designated parks pay only 50% of the regular fare, ensuring affordability.
It is projected that road services aim to move 288,644 passengers over 144 routes, while rail services are expected to serve an additional 300,000 travellers during the 13-day period.
“To ensure a smooth operation, a centralised fare system was adopted to eliminate the discrepancies experienced in previous years, just as return trips were also fully accounted for, allowing passengers to easily travel back to Abuja or other destinations.
“The government’s decision to deploy hybrid vehicles running on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and conventional fuel demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to cost reduction and sustainability. While challenges persist with CNG availability along certain routes, adequate refueling arrangements have been made to ensure uninterrupted service,” the mister said.
…RTEAN lauds FG
Representing the Road Transport Employers of Nigeria (RTEAN), Muhammad Abubakar commended the federal government for the initiative.
He highlighted the pivotal role of transport unions in implementing the programme and applauded President Tinubu for his proactive measures to alleviate the hardships caused by the removal of the petroleum subsidy.
“This initiative allows families to reconnect during the holidays, something many could not afford in previous years. We are honoured to contribute to this national effort,” Abubakar remarked.
The RTEAN pledged its full support in delivering quality service and ensuring Nigerians travel comfortably and safely during the festive season.