Rivers State Administrator Promises to Bring Back Free Buses for Workers
Port Harcourt, Rivers State – In a move to alleviate the transportation burdens faced by workers in Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has reportedly pledged to reinstate free bus services for civil servants and other workers. The promise, which has sparked optimism among the state’s workforce, comes as part of Ibas’s broader commitment to improving workers’ welfare and addressing economic challenges in the state.
A Commitment to Workers’ Welfare
During a meeting with labour unions in Port Harcourt on April 30, 2025, Ibas reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to enhancing the welfare of Rivers State workers. While the specific promise to “bring back free buses” was not explicitly detailed in official statements, sources close to the administration suggest that Ibas intends to revive a transportation initiative reminiscent of previous free bus schemes implemented in the state. The administrator highlighted plans to expand the fleet of “intervention buses” to ease commuting challenges, particularly for civil servants navigating the state’s economic landscape.
Ibas’s pledge aligns with ongoing efforts to cushion the effects of economic hardships, including the ripple effects of the 2023 fuel subsidy removal. The rising cost of transportation has been a significant concern for workers, prompting the administration to explore sustainable solutions to improve mobility and reduce financial strain.
A History of Free Bus Initiatives in Rivers State
Rivers State has a precedent for free transportation schemes aimed at supporting residents. In July 2023, former Governor Siminalayi Fubara launched a free transport scheme to mitigate the economic fallout from the fuel subsidy removal. The initiative saw the deployment of 17 luxury buses to operate on various routes across the state, providing relief to commuters. Posts on X from that period also highlighted Fubara’s palliative bus transport system, which was designed to support residents during a time of economic uncertainty.
Earlier, in 2020, under the administration of then-Governor Nyesom Wike, Rivers State introduced free bus services in specific local government areas, such as Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt, to ease movement restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, a free school bus program for children was implemented, as noted in online discussions on platforms like Nairaland, showcasing the state’s history of leveraging transportation as a tool for social support.
Addressing Misinformation and Clarifying Intent
While the promise to reinstate free buses has generated excitement, it’s worth noting that Ibas has previously debunked false claims about his administration’s initiatives. For instance, he recently clarified that no recruitment exercise for 10,000 workers was underway, urging the public to rely on verified information. This raises the possibility that the “free buses” narrative may stem from unverified sources or misinterpretations of his commitment to expanding intervention buses.
In his April 30 address, Ibas emphasized transparency and urged labour unions to foster harmony and support his administration’s efforts to deliver measurable improvements. The expansion of intervention buses, while not explicitly described as free, could evolve into a subsidized or fully free service, depending on budgetary approvals and logistical arrangements.
What This Means for Workers
The potential return of free bus services would be a significant boon for Rivers State workers, many of whom grapple with high transportation costs amid inflation and economic challenges. A free bus scheme would not only reduce commuting expenses but also improve access to workplaces, particularly for civil servants in Port Harcourt and surrounding areas. If implemented, the initiative could set a precedent for other states grappling with similar economic pressures.
However, the specifics of the program—such as the number of buses, routes covered, and eligibility criteria—remain unclear. Workers and residents are eagerly awaiting further details from the Sole Administrator’s office to confirm the scope and timeline of the initiative.
Looking Ahead
As Rivers State navigates its economic and administrative landscape under Ibas’s leadership, the promise of free buses represents a tangible step toward improving the quality of life for workers. The administration’s focus on transportation aligns with broader goals of fostering economic resilience and social equity in the state.
For now, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels to avoid falling prey to misinformation. If the free bus initiative comes to fruition, it could mark a significant milestone in Ibas’s tenure, reinforcing his commitment to putting workers’ welfare at the forefront of his agenda.
Should further details emerge, including official confirmation of the free bus scheme, this publication will provide updates to keep Rivers State residents informed. In the meantime, workers remain hopeful that the promise of free buses will soon translate into reality, easing their daily commute and bringing relief to their pockets.
