By Atoyebi Nike
The Sokoto State Government has released 30 additional mass transit buses to the State Ministry of Transportation to improve inter-state and intra-city travel. Deputy Governor Idris Muhammed Gobir, who handed over the keys to the Commissioner for Transportation, said the move was part of efforts to ease transportation challenges for residents.
Gobir explained that the buses were part of a previously acquired fleet that had been withheld pending the rollout of the state’s new e-ticketing system. With the system now active, passengers can book and pay for rides online. He added that the e-ticketing platform would promote transparency, accountability, and value for public funds.
He called on the transportation ministry to supervise and maintain the vehicles effectively, stressing that the buses were bought with taxpayers’ money and must be well cared for.
Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Bala Kokani, commended the initiative and pledged that the vehicles would be maintained properly. He also appreciated Governor Ahmed Aliyu for prioritising public transport.
So far, the Aliyu administration has acquired 70 mass transit vehicles 50 buses and 20 Toyota Camrys as part of a broader strategy to reduce the impact of fuel subsidy removal and improve living standards in Sokoto.
