Obinna Uchendu Abakaliki
The Abia State Government has approved free round-trip transportation for about a 1,000 indigent citizens as to ensure that Abians without financial means can celebrate the 2024 Yuletide season with their loved ones at home.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Abia State Governor, Ctz Ukoha Njoku said that the initiative sponsored by the State Governor, Dr. Alex Otii covers some selected routes across Nigeria.
The routes include Kaduna, Jos, Kano, Niger, Maiduguri, Abuja, and Lagos, with coordinated pick-up and return schedules for the beneficiaries.
Pick-Up Locations according to the statement
Kaduna – Umuahia: Departure on December 22, 2024, Return on January 5, 2025, Jos – Umuahia: Departure on December 20, 2024, Return on January 6, 2025, Kano – Umuahia: Departure on December 24, 2024, Return on January 6, 2025
Others routes are Niger – Umuahia: Departure on December 23, 2024, Return on January 4, 2025, Maiduguri – Umuahia: Departure on December 22, 2024, Return on January 10, 2025, Abuja – Umuahia: Departure on December 21, 2024, Return on January 4, 2025, Lagos – Umuahia: Departures on December 21, 22, and additional dates with 29 buses on a rolling basis
He said that the State is partnering with reputable transport companies adding that the state government has ensured safe and reliable transit for the beneficiaries.
“The process, coordinated through the Abia State Liaison Offices in Lagos and Umuahia, also involved collaborations with Abia-based associations to identify and process eligible citizens.
“Governor Otti’s initiative underscores his commitment to fostering inclusivity and ensuring that no citizen is left behind during the season of love and celebration. This program marks a significant step in prioritizing the welfare of Abians, particularly the indigent population, during the festive period.
Ctz. Ukoha commended the State Governor’s dedication to community-centered policies, adding that this initiative reflects the administration’s values of care and compassion.
