Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has launched a free bus service themed “Xmas Free Transport Service,” aimed at cushioning the effects of economic hardship and assisting residents and visitors during the festive season, when movement across the state increases.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on Monday in Calabar, Otu, represented by his Deputy, Peter Odey, noted that it has become a tradition for the administration to roll out free bus services during festive periods, including Easter, to reduce transportation costs and promote unity among residents.
He described the initiative as aligned with his People First mantra and the Carnival Calabar theme, “Traces of Time.”
He said, “It is a tradition for Governor Otu to roll out free bus services during festive periods, including Easter.
“This is to reduce transportation costs and promote unity among residents. This effort aligns with his People First mantra and the Carnival Calabar theme, ‘Traces of Time.’”
He further explained that the service will operate throughout the duration of the Calabar Festival, covering major streets in Calabar Municipality and extending to neighbouring towns and zones, with routes such as Watt Market to Scanobo and Watt Market to Atimbo, among others.
He added that inter-local government routes will include Calabar to Ugep, Calabar to Ikom, Calabar to Abi, Calabar to Obudu, Calabar to Ogoja, as well as a ferry service from Calabar to Creek Town, Odukpani.
He encouraged residents and visitors to take advantage of the initiative while continuing to support and pray for the administration of Governor Otu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“All Cross Riverians and visitors should take advantage of this gesture while continuing to support and pray for the People First administration of Governor Bassey Otu, which aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he added.
