Kwara Launches First Phase of Mass Transit Scheme With 10 Buses

THE Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed on Thursday launched the first phase of the State’s Mass Transit Scheme, which is part of government’s effort to ease transportation in the State.

Governor Ahmed said that the scheme, tagged, “Maigida Soludero Transit” was designed to ameliorate the suffering of commuters, and would also help develop an intra and inter-city transport system that is more available, affordable and efficient.

Alhaji Ahmed noted that the high capacity Mass Transit buses, upscale the existing transport scheme in the State, which involves Motorcycles, Taxis, and Mini-Buses.

He disclosed that efficient transportation is not only key to public welfare, it is also germane to the economic and social lives of the people as it enhances commerce by making easier transportation of goods.

The Governor, however, noted that the buses would not be managed by government as perceived in some quarters.

He disclosed that the buses were purchased for the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) through a credit facility provided by the State Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Bureau.

According to the Governor, the buses were acquired at the cost of N257 million, inclusive of comprehensive insurance and registration.

Governor Ahmed assured that additional credit facilities will be provided to the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) and the Association of Independent Marketers (AIT) to acquire buses that will ply other routes within and outside the metropolis.

He noted that the MST Scheme will be supported by Second-Tier Bus Stops as well as this terminus and will be gradually rolled out to other parts of the state in coming months.

While urging the beneficiaries to ensure regular maintenance of the buses and drive safely in the interest of passengers and other road users, Governor Ahmed assured that his administration will sustain its supports for MSME as a tested route to economic growth, jobs, and empowerment.

Earlier, the National President, National Road Transport Workers Association, Alhaji Najimudeen Usman Yasin commend the governor for the effort, saying that the mass transit would go a long way in easing the masses sufferings.

He also assured the government of his people’s support in ensuring huge success of the scheme.

The buses are expected to ply the Post Office-Malete, Post Office- Unilorin, Post Office- UITH and Post Office- Amoyo routes.