Nigeria’s transport network has expanded in recent years to meet the needs of a growing population. However, the suspension in 2021 of the system of subsidised fuel fares to replenish the coffers drained by the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed up prices at the pump by 15%. This decision has had a major impact on the cost of urban transport. To ease the burden on citizens, the Nigerian government has introduced measures to reduce transport fares. Train journeys will be free, and passengers will now pay 50% less on bus tickets.
Easing the financial pressure of end-of-year travel is the commitment made by the Nigerian government as it implements measures to reduce the cost of transport. The announcement, made on December 20, 2023, includes free train rides and a 50% reduction in public bus fares across the country. The decision comes at a time when inflation continues to climb. Indeed, according to the World Poverty Clock research institute, 91 million people – just under half the population – live on less than two dollars a day. The reduced interstate fares and free train rides, scheduled to run from December 21, 2023 to January 4, 2024, are part of a collaborative effort with companies operating luxury buses on 22 routes nationwide.
“In the spirit of Christmas and end of year festivities, president Bola Tinubu in another demonstration of love for Nigerians has approved that the federal government should intervene to bring down the cost of transportation to allow our compatriots who want to travel to visit their hometowns to do so without stress and the extra burden imposed by the high cost of transport.”
Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development – Nigeria
In January 2023, the National bureau of statistics (NBS) published a report entitled Transport Fare Watch, in which it reported that the average fares paid by commuters for bus journeys had risen by 0.94% month-on-month, from 644.66 naira in December 2022 to 650.70 naira.
“Thus, Nigerians willing to travel can take public transport at 50% discount of current cost and all our train services on the roads our trains currently serve at 0 cost even for round trip during this holiday season.”
Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development – Nigeria
The continent’s leading economic power, Nigeria is rich in oil and gas. But the health crisis has led to a drop in global demand for black gold, causing prices to plummet. With the economy in a fragile state, the government is now seeking to diversify its transport offer by turning to vehicles powered by renewable energies.