By Rakiya A.Muhammad
The Sokoto state government Sunday handed 30 additional mass transit buses to the Ministry of Transportation as part of efforts to ease the transportation burden on citizens, especially in the face of economic challenges stemming from the removal of fuel subsidies.
The government complemented this development by introducing a new e-ticketing system, which aims to streamline access and foster accountability.
Deputy Governor Alhaji Idris Muhammed Gobir who presented the keys to Commissioner for Transportation Hon. Bala Kokani disclosed that the new buses, part of a fleet already acquired by the government, were kept pending the completion of the state’s digital ticketing plat form
“With the e-ticketing system now fully operational, passengers can conveniently book and pay for their trips online, removing bottlenecks and long queues at terminals,” he highlighted.
“The e-ticketing system will also ensure transparency and accountability in the day-to-day operations of the mass transit service, and it will guarantee value for money.”
The deputy governor emphasized that taxpayers funded the acquisition of the buses and stressed the importance of safeguarding and maintaining them as valuable public assets.
He enjoined the ministry to implement rigorous oversight and consistent maintenance and uphold cleanliness standards for the vehicles.
Speaking, Hon. Bala Kokani, Commissioner for Transportation, revealed that since taking office, Governor Ahmed Aliyu has procured a total of 70 mass transit vehicles, comprising 50 buses and 20 Toyota Camrys, to enhance both interstate and intracity services.
He described the transportation upgrade as an integral component of comprehensive reforms designed to enhance infrastructure and alleviate the cost of living within the state.
Kokani lauded Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his ongoing commitment to enhancing the transport sector, characterizing the achievement as a significant accomplishment in the administration’s move to transform public mobility.
He committed to ensuring the maintenance of the vehicle in optimal condition.
