Fuel subsidy removal: Fubara flags off free transport scheme

By Okafor Ofiebor/Rivers

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has flagged off a free transport scheme to cushion the challenges faced by residents of the State as a result of the removal of fuel subsidy.

Speaking during the flag-off at the Rivers State Transport Company Complex in Port Harcourt on Tuesday July 11, 2023, Governor Fubara said the government was aware and concerned by the difficulties the fuel subsidy removal has caused the populace, which necessitated the decision to initiate the intervention.

The governor who was represented by his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, noted that the introduction of the Free Transport Scheme was in line with the social contract his administration has with the Rivers people.

“For us it will always be a promise made, and a promise kept “, the Governor stressed.

Fubara applauded the immediate past Governor of the State for ensuring that seasoned administrators emerged as Governor and Deputy, adding that they will continue to work for the interest of the State.

He charged the operators of the buses to be committed and show due diligence to duties while calling on the public who are the end users of the free transport intervention scheme to see it as a gift and treasure it.

In his remarks, the State Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Jacobson Nbina who commended Governor Fubara for his kind gesture towards the People of the State, said 17 Luxury Buses. They are designated to ply various routes and will carry people free of charge.

He corrected the notion that the vehicles will only carry Civil Servants.

Also speaking, the Head of Service, Dr. George Nweke expressed delight that the Governor has fulfilled the promise he made to labour leaders who visited him a few weeks ago, stressing that his office will collaborate with the transport ministry to ensure the smooth operation of the scheme.

Earlier, the Chairman Joint Negotiating Public Service Council of Nigeria Labour Congress, Emecheta Chuku, thanked the Governor for the honour done to the workers of the state, noting that the free transport scheme will not only cushion the effect of the subsidy removal but provide employment for Rivers people.

Picture

Photo Captions

Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. (Mrs.) Ngozi Nma Odu (2nd Left), cutting a ribbon during the Official Flag-off of the State Government Fuel Subsidy Intervention Buses, with her are the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Jacobson Nbina (3rd Right), the State Head of Service, Dr. George Nweke, the Mayor, Port Harcourt City LGA, Hon. Allwell Ihunda (Right) and others at the Rivers State Transport Company (RTC), Waterlines, Port Harcourt on the 11th July, 2023.

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