The Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Sunday Steve Karimi, has launched a free shuttle bus service in Lokoja, Kogi State, as part of measures to cushion the rising cost of transportation on residents.
The initiative, implemented under the Karimi Cares programme, was formally flagged off on Wednesday at Up-Garage, Lokoja, with residents, political leaders and supporters in attendance.
The highlight of the event was a symbolic ride in the fully air-conditioned shuttle bus, which conveyed residents from the launch venue through major streets of the metropolis to Felele, marking the commencement of the service.
Speaking at the event, the representative of the Senator and the APC leader in Kogi West, Commodore Folorunsho Daniel (rtd), said Karimi had demonstrated commitment to the welfare of Lokoja residents through various interventions.
Daniel expressed optimism that more shuttle buses would be provided if Karimi secures a second term in office, while thanking the people of Lokoja for their continued support.
According to the organisers, the intervention is designed to provide direct relief to civil servants, students, traders and other residents who depend on public transportation for their daily activities.
The bus will operate two services daily during peak periods, with the morning service running from 7:00am to 10:00am and the evening service from 3:00pm to 6:00pm.
The designated route covers the Nigeria Army Barracks, Lokoja New Market and Nataco Junction, providing free transportation for residents travelling along the corridor.
Speaking at the event, former APC chairman, Alhaji Maikudi Bature, who delivered the welcome address, urged residents not to be swayed by what he described as distribution of food items and other inducements during elections.
Bature said Senator Karimi had contributed significantly to the welfare of the people, recalling that the senator provided water to residents throughout the Ramadan fasting period.
He said the senator remained committed to delivering more dividends of democracy to the people.
The launch attracted residents who gathered along the route as the bus moved through parts of the city. Christian and Muslim prayers were also offered for the peaceful take-off and successful operation of the service.
The organisers said the Karimi Cares Initiative would go beyond transportation, with plans for broader interventions aimed at reducing economic pressures on residents.
The shuttle service comes amid continuing concerns over the impact of higher transportation costs on households and businesses following the removal of the petrol subsidy.
With the commencement of the scheme, residents along the designated corridor are expected to access free transportation during the specified morning and evening peak periods.