In a move to cushion the impact of rising transport costs and foster social inclusion this Easter season, Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has launched a state-wide Special Easter Free Transport Scheme, bringing relief to thousands of residents across the state.
The initiative, flagged off in Calabar, deploys 60 mini buses within the capital city, while two 18-seater buses have been assigned to every local government area outside the metropolis to cover long-distance routes at zero cost to passengers.
Speaking at the launch, the state Governor Bassey Otu represented by his Special Adviser on General Duties, Ekpenyong Akiba, said the programme is not just a festive gesture, but a demonstration of the administration’s “People First” agenda, aimed at meeting the everyday needs of citizens, especially those at the grassroots.
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The governor said all participating drivers are fully paid and exempted from daily union levies, a move designed to reduce operational stress and increase the take-home income.
The State Chairman of the Unified Commercial Drivers Association, Nta Henshaw, hailed the governor’s decision to repeat a programme that was widely praised during the last Christmas season, noting visible improvements in roads infrastructure and urban mobility.
The Easter Free Transport Scheme rolls out across Cross River State, not only offers timely relief for commuters but also sets a precedent for people-centered governance.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
