The Zamfara bus loan scheme has begun with the distribution of 50 new buses to members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). Governor Dauda Lawal says the initiative will improve public transportation, create economic opportunities and make transport services more efficient across the state.
The governor officially presented the buses on Wednesday at the Government House in Gusau.
Government Introduces Subsidised Vehicle Loan
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the buses were provided through the Zamfara State Loan Scheme.
The government supplied the vehicles as loans to members of the state’s NURTW chapter.
Governor Lawal said the union would help identify qualified beneficiaries.
He added that the union would also monitor the programme and ensure beneficiaries repay the loans.
Beneficiaries Receive 20 Percent Subsidy
Lawal explained that each bus costs ₦27.39 million.
However, the state government will pay 20 percent of the purchase price.
The subsidy amounts to ₦5.478 million for each vehicle.
Beneficiaries will repay the remaining ₦21.912 million over 44 months.
The governor said the arrangement will make vehicle ownership more affordable for transport operators while supporting their businesses.
Zamfara Procures Five New Fire Trucks
Alongside the transport programme, the government commissioned five modern fire trucks.
Lawal said the new equipment will strengthen the state’s emergency response capacity.
He noted that fire outbreaks often destroy homes, businesses and livelihoods within minutes.
According to him, the additional trucks will enable firefighters to respond more quickly across communities in Zamfara.
The governor also urged the Fire Service to train personnel regularly and keep the equipment in good working condition.
He encouraged the agency to increase public awareness campaigns on fire prevention and safety.
Governor Warns Against Misuse of Public Assets
Lawal stressed that the buses and fire trucks belong to the people of Zamfara State.
He directed all ministries, departments, agencies and beneficiaries to submit quarterly reports on the use and maintenance of the assets.
The governor warned that his administration would not tolerate vandalism, misuse or diversion of government property.
He said proper supervision would ensure the programme achieves its intended objectives.
Initiative Targets Economic Growth and Better Services
The Zamfara bus loan scheme forms part of the state government’s wider efforts to strengthen public transport and empower workers.
Officials believe the programme will improve mobility while helping transport operators expand their businesses through affordable financing.
The addition of new fire trucks also reflects the government’s commitment to improving public safety and protecting lives and property.
The Zamfara bus loan scheme combines transport development with economic empowerment by providing subsidised buses to NURTW members. Together with the commissioning of five fire trucks, the initiative aims to improve transportation, strengthen emergency response services and support sustainable development across the state.
Leave a comment