Residents of Cross River State are set to enjoy free transportation this Easter season following the rollout of a special transport initiative by the state government.
Governor Bassey Otu announced the programme as part of efforts to ease the financial burden on residents and help people travel more easily during the Easter celebrations.
The free transport scheme was officially flagged off in Calabar, the state capital, and is expected to operate across major routes within the city and extend to several communities and local government areas in the state.
According to the government, the initiative is aimed at helping residents cope with the rising cost of transportation caused by the increase in fuel prices across the country. The programme is also designed to make movement easier for families who wish to travel and celebrate Easter with their loved ones.
The Governor, who was represented at the event by his Special Adviser on General Duties, Ekpenyong Akiba, explained that the intervention forms part of the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of citizens.
He said the free transport service would reduce the stress many residents face when trying to move around during festive periods, especially at a time when transport fares have increased significantly.
Akiba also assured commuters that safety measures have been put in place to ensure that passengers travel without fear. Drivers participating in the programme have been advised to operate responsibly and prioritize the safety of passengers throughout the duration of the scheme.
Many residents have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention considering the economic hardship being experienced across the country.
Some commuters who spoke after the launch expressed appreciation to the state government, noting that the programme would help them save money they would have spent on transportation during the festive season.
Traders and workers within Calabar also said the free bus service would make it easier for them to move around the city and carry out their daily activities without worrying about rising transport costs.
The Easter free transport programme is expected to run throughout the festive period, allowing residents across different parts of the state to benefit from the government’s intervention.
Observers say the initiative has become one of the recurring programmes introduced during festive seasons to support residents and encourage easier movement across the state.
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