The Benue State government, led by Governor Hyacinth Alia, has introduced a transport subsidy to alleviate the effects of fuel subsidy removal on citizens. General Manager of Benue Links, Alexander Fanafa, disclosed this in an interview with The Sun. The subsidy aims to reduce the financial burden on commuters. Governor Alia's administration has been working to improve the state's transport sector. Benue Links has been a key part of these efforts. The company has seen significant changes under Fanafa's leadership.
When Fanafa took over as General Manager on June 15, 2023, Benue Links faced numerous challenges, including inadequate vehicles, a deplorable working environment, and staff salary arrears. Governor Alia provided instructions to improve the company's fortunes. Fanafa outlined the problems, and the governor promptly addressed them. The governor constructed a bus culvert and drainage system to prevent flooding at the company's premises. He also improved the environment and provided shelter for passengers. These changes aimed to make the company's premises more comfortable for commuters.
Governor Alia injected 100 brand-new vehicles into Benue Links to revive its operations. The company now operates in almost all 23 local government headquarters in Benue State. The governor also donated trucks to introduce haulage services, which have been successfully commenced. Benue Links has expanded its services beyond Benue State, operating in nearly 32 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The company has introduced new routes, including Maiduguri, Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina. This expansion has increased the company's reach and services.
One of the significant achievements of Governor Alia's administration is the provision of permanent sites for Benue Links. The company has acquired sites in Abuja, Ihugh, Adikpo, and Zaki Biam. The sites in Ihugh, Adikpo, and Zaki Biam have been developed and are in use. In Abuja, the company has occupied a reasonable portion of its property. These new sites have helped to increase the company's presence and services. Benue Links has also developed a haulage business and established a solid operational structure.
Benue Links has introduced technological innovations, including online booking and Point-of-Sale (POS) payment systems. The online booking platform has been operating smoothly for two and a half years without any reported hacking incidents. Passengers can book their journeys from the comfort of their homes or offices. The POS payment system allows passengers to pay with their ATM cards without incurring additional charges. These innovations aim to improve the commuting experience and make transactions easier.
Governor Alia has also directed a 50 per cent reduction of transport fares for people living with disabilities (PWDs). This move aims to make transportation more accessible and affordable for PWDs. The governor's administration has been working to improve the lives of citizens, particularly vulnerable groups. The transport subsidy and fare reduction for PWDs demonstrate the government's commitment to social welfare. These initiatives have positively impacted the lives of many citizens.
The General Manager of Benue Links expressed gratitude to Governor Alia for his support and guidance. Fanafa highlighted the company's achievements under the governor's leadership. The company has made significant progress in improving its services and infrastructure. Governor Alia's administration has prioritized the transport sector, and Benue Links has been a key beneficiary. The company's future looks promising under the governor's leadership.
Key points
- Governor Alia's administration introduces transport subsidy to cushion fuel subsidy removal effects
- 50 per cent transport fare reduction for people living with disabilities
- Benue Links expands services to nearly 32 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja
