From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Benue state Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has officially commissioned and handed over 100 hiace buses to Benue Links, the state transport company, to ease the transportation challenges amongst travelers in the state.
The buses were part of the palliatives by the Federal Government to to states to cushion the effects of subsidy removal.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony at the Benue Links park, Makurdi, on Thursday, November 30, 2023, Governor Alia said it was a proud moment for him to engage in the ceremony.
Alia said the occasion was in fulfilment of his earlier promise to Benue people to provide vehicles that would move passengers and their goods at cheaper rates.
“I am happy to note here that even before the arrival and hand over of these buses, the Management of Benue Links had been proactive by identifying and opening new routes to reach more towns and villages across the state. This is a commendable step.
“As we hand over the new buses, it is our hope and expectation that more routes would be opened and fares dropped for interested passengers. It is our desire that farmers, market men and women, civil servants and indeed all Benue residents have better traveling experiences with the unleashing of the new buses.”
He explained that the fact that transportation has become a necessity in contemporary life as it enhances economic growth informed the choice of the project as a palliative strategy to cushion the harsh effects of fuel subsidy removal on Benue people.
“As I hand over these buses, my appeal to the Management of Benue Links is to ensure that all drivers handling them are qualified, professional and dedicated. There should be very strict monitoring of their activities with a view to checking arbitrary hike in fares, over-loading and possible disregard for traffic rules and regulations.
“We are providing these buses at the cusp of Yuletide when massive movement of passengers and goods is expected. I therefore enjoin you to make the season truly memorable through your services,” he said.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for introducing the bouquet of palliatives from which states can choose to address the peculiar needs of their people.
He said Benue is also eagerly awaiting the Federal Government’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered buses to boost her efforts.
Earlier, the Deputy Governor, Dr Sam Ode, said upon assumption of office, the transport company was moribund and needed immediate intervention.
While stating that the transport company was one of the sure ways of reaching out to millions of Benue residents, Ode said that Governor Alia, who is a Catholic Priest, has brought back dignity to governance and the people are now enjoying.
Welcoming dignitaries earlier, the Commissioner for Power, Energy and Transport, Barr.Omale Omale, who commended the Governor for the gesture said the State owned transport company which was established in 1988 was neglected by previous administrations, hence the need for the present government’s intervention.
The General Manager of the company, Alexander Canada, appreciated the state government for enriching the fleet of the company saying it will in deed solve the transport challenges of the Benue people just as he pledged to ensure strict monitoring to ensure that the buses are put to good use.