Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has flagged off the 2025 Free Annual Transportation Programme, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and people-centred governance.
The programme, which commenced on Sunday, 21 December 2025, has continued to provide critical mobility support to thousands of Nigerians since its inception in 2020, facilitating safe interstate travel during the festive season, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, or social background.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on behalf of Governor Zulum, the Chairman of the Implementation Committee, Chief Ugochukwu Egwudike, said the initiative was designed to ease the hardship faced by low-income earners and vulnerable groups, especially during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
He noted that beyond transportation, the programme aims to promote social cohesion and national unity by reconnecting families separated by economic and security challenges.
He recalled that over the years, the scheme has reunited families who had been unable to travel home for three to five years, enabling them to celebrate Christmas with their loved ones.
He added that during the previous exercise, beneficiaries also received ₦30,000 each, paid directly into their bank accounts to cushion financial pressures and ensure transparency in disbursement.
According to officials, the 2025 exercise covers all six geopolitical zones of the country.
A total of 320 passengers will be transported on Day One, 280 on Day Two, and 150 on Day Three, with all passengers conveyed safely to their destinations.
The fourth day of the programme will be devoted to the distribution of palliatives and social support to 300 widows, orphans, and other vulnerable persons.
The Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Borno State , Mr. Joshua commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful, particularly for Christian faithful travelling to celebrate Christmas.
He praised Governor Zulum’s inclusive leadership and offered prayers for his continued success and greater service to humanity.
Other stakeholders described the programme as a practical demonstration of Governor Zulum’s humane and responsive leadership, noting its positive impact on social welfare, interfaith harmony, and national integration.
The free annual transportation programme remains one of the flagship social intervention initiatives of the Borno State Government, providing annual relief and mobility support to thousands of Nigerians across the country.
