As part of the efforts to mitigate the costs of intra-city travel and to provide a respite from the daily transportation challenges commuters are facing, Governor Caleb Muftwang of Plateau State has commissioned tin city metro urban transportation with 15 state-of-the-art MAN-Diseal buses.
Recall that the state government last week commissioned twenty Sienna cars to ply Jos to Abuja as part of its efforts to ease the transportation problem due to the effects of economic hardship being experienced.
Speaking shortly before the commissioning, Governor Muftwang pointed out that the buses are not mere vehicles; they are mobile hubs of innovation, equipped with the latest amenities such as Near Field Communication (NFC) and secure card payment systems, adding that the state is ushering in an era of digitised travel, aligning with the global shift towards cashless transactions for the convenience of passengers.
He mentioned that safety and oversight are the cornerstones of the transportation network, adding that to achieve this, the government has integrated comprehensive video monitoring systems with audio and video feeds on each bus to guarantee the safety of passengers and instil a culture of accountability and transparency within the operations.
“The Tin City Metro Urban Transportation Initiative is more than a transportation project; it is a catalyst for community development. It is expected to generate between 500 and 1,000 job opportunities, fueling economic growth and fostering development across the state. This initiative is about propelling our city into a future of prosperity and advancement.”
The governor reassured the people of Plateau State of his administration’s dedication to exemplary leadership, guided by principles of integrity, character, the fear of God, and a deep-seated love for the state, adding that his administration will continue to introduce initiatives that alleviate economic burdens and elevate the quality of life for the greater good.
“Our government will remain steadfast in its adherence to due process, accountability, transparency, equity, and the rule of law. I call upon all traders and citizens to collaborate with our officials, who strive to maintain a clean and healthy environment for us all. Rest assured, every decision made by this government is with your best interest at heart.”
Governor Muftwang therefore called on all stakeholders, including leaders of MDAs, government parastatals, and appointees, to champion the transformative initiative, adding that leadership is not just about envisioning change; it is about being an active participant in its realisation.
In his speech, the General Manager of Plateau Express Services Limited, Mr Samuel Gwott, pointed out that the government is actively exploring the integration of compressed natural gas (CNG) as an alternative fuel source for its bus fleet, adding that the initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to reducing emissions and contributing to a cleaner urban environment.
“Looking ahead, our long-term goal is to transition to an entirely electric vehicle (EV) fleet for both metro trains and buses. This ambitious endeavour will further solidify our position as a leader in sustainable urban mobility, and Jos, Plateau State, will be the first.
“Beyond its environmental benefits, the TinCity metro project is poised to boost employment opportunities and spur economic growth within the city. By providing efficient and reliable transportation, we aim to enhance connectivity, facilitate trade, and attract new investments, ultimately contributing to the overall prosperity of our region.”
He added that the government plans to extend the nightlife in the state so that businesses can stay longer and social programmes will be happy that people can get back home safely.
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