By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
In a bid to deliver the dividends of democracy and to enhance the economic development of Banki Town, Borno State, the Caretaker Chairman of Bama LGA, Hon. Grema Terab has distributed 10 Keke-NAPEPs and 10 Jega tricycle pick-up vans to ease movement of both people and goods within the town.
The distribution of the vehicles, according to the chairman, would help in addressing the complaints about the absence of transportation system, since the restoration of peace and livelihood activities to the once bubbling border town.
Hon. Terab spoke on Monday in Banki Town during the launching of the mass local transport scheme.
He recalled: “that once visitors arrive Banki Motor Park at the outskirts and entrance of Banki town , they would be forced to continue the rest of their journey into town on foot, or bicycle, except when they are lucky to get help”.
“In Banki Town, there’s no means of transporting and movement of goods or luggages from the motor park to the town and other places around except through the use of push carts (amalanke).
The Bama LGA Chairman, further, explained that in line with the Sustainable Rural Development Agenda (SRDA) of Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, Bama LGA Council initiated a transport scheme for Banki Town, with the provision of 10 Keke-NAPEPs and 10 Jega tricycle pick-up vans to ease transportation.
According to him, the vehicles were distributed to transport unions and various clubs and associations on subsidized hire purchase basis in order to empower the beneficiaries, lessen the transportation costs and ensure periodic rollover of the program.
He explained that once the beneficiaries finish paying 50% of the cost of the vehicles, they will be granted full ownership of the vehicles as an empowerment gesture.
The Chairman added the council will continue to provide vehicles to new set of beneficiaries on routine basis.
He however warned that no vehicle is allowed to be taken out of Banki Town for any reason at any time, even after securing full ownership of the property.
The 152 Commanding Officer Banki Unit appreciated the Chairman and stressed that they are very hopeful that with this modest effort, movement will be much easier, and economic activities will be improved in the border town.
