Douglas Blessing, Port Harcourt
There was jubilation in Port Harcourt, as Rivers State Governor, Mr Siminalayi Fubara yesterday, rolled out a free transport intervention scheme to mitigate the economic challenges faced by residents of the State as a result of the removal of fuel subsidy.
Speaking during the flag-off at the Rivers State Transport Company Complex in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara said the State Government under his watch was aware and concerned by the difficulties the fuel subsidy removal has caused the populace which necessitated the decision to initiate the intervention.
Represented by his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, the governor noted that the Free Transport Scheme was in line with the social contract his administration has with the Rivers people who gave them the mandate to serve. “For us it will always be a promise made, and a promise kept ‘’, the Governor stressed.
Fubara applauded the immediate past Governor of the State for ensuring that a seasoned administrators emerged as Governor and Deputy, adding that they will continue to work for the interest of the State.
He charged the operators of the buses to be committed and show due diligence to duties while calling on the public who are the end users of the free transport intervention scheme to see it as a gift and treasure it.
In his remarks the State Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Jacobson Nbina who commended Governor Fubara for his kind gesture towards the People of the State, said 17 Luxury Buses which are designated to ply various routes will carry people free of charge.
On his part, the Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke expressed delight that the Governor has fulfilled the promise he made to labour leaders who visited him a few weeks ago, stressing that his office will collaborate with the transport ministry to ensure the smooth operation of the scheme.
Earlier the Chairman Joint Negotiating Public Service Council of Nigeria Labour Congress, Mr Emecheta Chuku, thanked the Governor for the honour done to the workers of the state, noting that the free transport scheme will not only cushion the effect of the subsidy removal but provide employment for Rivers people.
“What surprises me about this intervention is the urgency of it. When we met him (Fubara), he assured he was going to do it, but I had thought this was a project that would take the next six months to be accomplished.
“To show how committed and sensitive the governor is to the working class, he has made it possible in a very short time. In the multiplier effect of this project, Rivers people are going to use free bus, drivers, conductors and maintenance crew will be employed. We will remain grateful to the governor.”
