In a heartwarming initiative to reunite families during the festive season, the Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has approved free round-trip transportation for nearly 1,000 indigent citizens. This move ensures that Abians without financial means can celebrate the 2024 Yuletide season with their loved ones at home.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the Executive Governor, covers selected routes across Nigeria. These routes include Kaduna, Jos, Kano, Niger, Maiduguri, Abuja, and Lagos, with coordinated pick-up and return schedules for the beneficiaries.
Pick-Up Locations and Dates:
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
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
In partnership with reputable transport companies, 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.
Speaking on the development, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, praised the governor’s dedication to community-centered policies, adding that this initiative reflects the administration’s values of care and compassion.
