Makurdi, Nigeria — In a groundbreaking move to promote inclusion and ease the burden of transportation on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has approved a 50 percent reduction in transport fares for all PWDs traveling on routes operated by the state-owned Benue Links Nigeria Ltd.
The directive, which took immediate effect, was announced in Makurdi over the weekend by the General Manager of Benue Links, Comrade Alexander Fanafa.
The decision comes only weeks after Governor Alia signed the domesticated version of the Disability Act into law in Benue State—a bold signal of his administration’s commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and the protection of the rights of vulnerable groups.
A Responsive Leadership
Speaking on the development, Fanafa said the governor has consistently demonstrated responsiveness to the transportation needs of Benue residents. He noted that Governor Alia’s interventions have not only transformed Benue Links but also repositioned the company as a leader in Nigeria’s public transport sector.
“His Excellency directed that all PWDs traveling with Benue Links should enjoy a 50 percent discount on fares and be given preferential treatment. This is to ensure inclusivity and a sense of belonging in the state’s transportation system,” Fanafa stated.
The GM recalled how, shortly after taking office, the governor tackled long-standing flooding issues at the company’s headquarters by constructing a culvert, installing drainage systems, and upgrading the premises with asphalt—projects that improved the working environment for staff and enhanced the traveling experience for commuters.
Transforming Benue Links
Governor Alia’s intervention in November 2023 marked a turning point for Benue Links when he donated 100 buses to revive the company’s struggling operations. Since then, the fleet has expanded with 10 additional buses and 10 sedan cars to serve as taxis across the state.
This expansion, according to Fanafa, has had a ripple effect on the wider transport sector in Benue. Independent transporters, faced with the company’s affordable fares and efficient services, have been compelled to review their charges downward—making mobility more accessible and affordable for the general public.
Welfare and Expansion
The revival of Benue Links is not limited to its fleet. The company has also recruited over 110 new drivers, vetted and supervised by the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), to ensure safety and professionalism.
In addition, staff welfare has significantly improved. Workers now earn a minimum wage of ₦75,000, and retirees are receiving their gratuities promptly, a development that has restored morale and strengthened productivity within the company.
National Reach and Innovation
Benue Links has also expanded its footprint, now covering 35 states, including Abuja, with plans underway to reopen its Ekiti route soon. To meet modern transport demands, the company has introduced online booking services on select routes, haulage and courier services, and has added new trucks to support goods transportation across the country.
These innovations have not only boosted the company’s image but also placed it at the forefront of modern, inclusive, and affordable transportation in Nigeria.
Cushioning the Impact of Subsidy Removal
Fanafa emphasized that Benue Links’ intracity transport services in Makurdi have been particularly impactful, helping to cushion the harsh effects of fuel subsidy removal on civil servants and low-income earners.
“Governor Alia remains committed to ensuring affordable and efficient movement of people, goods, and services across Benue State and beyond,” the GM said.
A Model for Inclusive Governance
Governor Alia’s approval of fare reductions for PWDs and his continued investment in Benue Links reflect a governance model that prioritizes equity, accessibility, and service delivery. By combining infrastructure upgrades, staff welfare, fleet expansion, and inclusive policies, his administration is setting a benchmark for other states to emulate.
For commuters in Benue and beyond, the message is clear: affordable, inclusive, and reliable transportation is no longer a dream—it is a reality.
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