Why I approved reduction in transport fares — Tinubu

Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, assured citizens on Friday that last Wednesday’s approval of a 50 per cent cut in inter-state land transportation fares nationwide is meant to alleviate their burden this festive season.

He mentioned that the payment of N-Power beneficiaries’ backlog of allowances, among other reliefs, are all geared towards the same ends, with much more to be expected in the new year.

Tinubu, who is on a brief Christmas holiday in Lagos, said this when he joined the Muslim Ummah to observe the Jumaat prayers at the Ansar-Ud-Deen Central Mosque in Surulere, Lagos.

According to a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the President said the economic reforms initiated by his government are aimed at establishing a robust and secure foundation for Nigerians today and for generations to come.

The statement is titled ‘Christmas Holiday: President Tinubu assures Nigerians that he will always be fair to all.’

“Reiterating his commitment to the welfare of all citizens, President Tinubu said the recent 50 per cent cut in inter-state land transportation fares nationwide and the payment of N-Power beneficiaries’ backlog of allowances, among other reliefs, are all efforts aimed at alleviating the burden of Nigerians this festive season, with much more to be expected in the new year,” the statement read in part.

The President told fellow worshippers: “We are committed to enthroning a better society for our citizens, irrespective of ethnic, religious, or geographical differences.

“The various policies already in place are expected to bring great succour to our people. We know their pains, and we are addressing them holistically.”

Tinubu said he would always be fair to all Nigerians, adding that his administration remained committed to advancing the unity of Nigeria and ensuring the welfare and prosperity of all citizens.

The one-time Lagos Governor who joined the prayers marking the centennial anniversary of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria commended the society for its service to humanity, contributions to the propagation of the tenets of Islam, and efforts in uplifting the downtrodden.

He also implored members of the society to remain committed to their objective of advancing the education of citizens and promoting the moral and social development of the Muslim Ummah.

The President expressed gratitude to the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society for their support during the elections, stressing that their efforts motivate his government to stay resolute in delivering good governance to the people.

“I thank the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society for its support during the elections.

“I do not take it for granted; rather, the support serves as a stimulus for us in government to remain focused,” he remarked.

Tinubu commended the Ansar-Ud-Deen for attaining 100 years through a systemic strategy that maintains its mission and vision, adding, “This is a testimony to what focused planning can achieve in a society.”