Lagos, Nigeria
Leke Adeboye, the Pastor-in-Charge of Youth Province One of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, says the church has spent N63m for fueling the buses providing free transportation between Lagos and Ogun States to Nigerians in seven weeks.
The church announced the initiative in September involved 10 buses shuttling commuters between key routes in Lagos, including 7up, Victoria Island, FESTAC, CMS, Ikorodu and Mowe in Ogun State.
Adeboye spoke with The Punch on Saturday, said in addition to providing free transportation, the church also ensured the welfare of drivers and volunteers who utilised the waiting period to preach messages from Open Heavens, the church’s daily devotional also cost N10m.
The youth pastor explained that each bus carried 80 passengers per trip, completing two daily trips and operating five days a week.
He said in seven weeks, the buses provided mobility for an estimated 56,000 people, cutting down commuting costs significantly for Nigerians of all backgrounds, including Christians, Muslims, atheists, military personnel, students, and law enforcement officers.
He added that the initiative of the church had saved each passenger an average of ₦40,000 per week.
“The buses were accessed by everyone, regardless of religion or social status. It was our way of easing the financial burden on Nigerians. Fueling alone cost over N63m.
“The free buses were entered by all, Nigerians and non-Christians, Muslims, traditionalists, atheists, Twitter warriors and abusers and accusers of the church. Students, military persons and everyone from all works of life.”
“The buses have also served students, military personnel, and law enforcement officers—both in and out of uniform—as well as less privileged groups like area boys and agberos, we spent N10m on this.
“The free bus initiative has been open to all Nigerians and even non-Nigerians, irrespective of their faith or status. It is a testament to the church’s commitment to serving humanity without discrimination. 10 buses x 80 souls x 2 trips per day x 5 working days a week. What number did you get?, ” Adeboye said.
