Edo to Purchase New CNG-buses to Boost Free Transport Scheme – Obaseki

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has announced that the state government is purchasing new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to expand its fleet for the free transport scheme in the state. This initiative is in response to the recent removal of fuel subsidies by the Federal Government. The governor made this announcement during his Independence Day speech.

The free transport service is currently available on all routes operated by the state-owned Edo City Transport Service (ECTS), covering 13 intra-city routes and several intercity routes daily, spanning towns and villages within the state’s three senatorial districts. The program has already benefited over 300,000 residents in the first two weeks of its implementation, and the government expects that over 1,500,000 residents will benefit from it in the initial two months of the free transport initiative.

To support this initiative further, the government has placed orders for additional CNG-run buses to expand the fleet, making it easier for more residents to access the free transport services.

Additionally, the government has taken measures to alleviate the financial burden caused by high transport fares. They have launched a 24-hour free Wi-Fi service in various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and other public places in the state. This initiative aims to provide unlimited internet access to workers and residents, allowing them to work effectively and efficiently from selected public spaces.

Overall, the Edo State Government under Governor Obaseki is implementing these measures to ease the challenges and reduce the cost of living for the people of Edo State in response to the removal of fuel subsidy.