The Motion Sponsor said an effective urban mass transit system would provide cheaper and dependable transportation options just as it would improve mobility, ease traffic, and boost economic production in the country.
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The House of Representatives on Wednesday asked the Federal Government to establish and extend an integrated urban mass transit system and invest in infrastructure, technology, and environmentally friendly forms of transportation to cushion the effects of the removal of fuel subsidy.
Recall that the Federal Government had announced the removal of the subsidy unexpectedly in May, whereas the subsidy was supposed to officially expire in June end, 2023.
The directive is contained in a motion calling for the “Establishment of Urban Mass Transit in Nigeria, to Cushion the Effects of Fuel Subsidy Removal on Nigerians”, wherein the sponsor, Rep. Ginger Obinna Onwusibe, noted the negative impacts of the fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians with its attendant difficulties.
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Onwusibe also noted, “that the removal of fuel subsidy has brought untold hardship on Nigerians with the unprecedented rise in transportation costs, which has had a detrimental effect on the standard of living of Nigerians in general.”
He posited that an effective urban mass transit system would offer reasonably priced, dependable, and Eco-friendly transportation options, lessening the burden on those affected by the removal of fuel subsidies, adding that a system like that would improve mobility, ease traffic, and boost economic production in the country’s metropolitan areas.
The lawmaker said if well managed, the system will not only ensure an affordable and reliable transportation system but will also positively impact the livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians.
In adopting the motion, the House also mandated the Committee on Land Transport (when constituted) to ensure implementation.
