Governor Lawal gives 50 buses to NURTW in Zamfara

Governor Dauda Lawal has given out 50 new buses to the Zamfara State Chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).

The buses were handed over on Wednesday at the Government House in Gusau.

A statement from the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the Zamfara State Government provided the buses as a loan under the Zamfara State Loan Scheme.

The statement also mentioned that part of the assets given includes five fire trucks bought to support firefighting efforts.

In his speech, Governor Lawal said the loan scheme aims to improve public transportation, promote economic empowerment, and make transport safer and more efficient for the people.

He said, "The buses would be distributed to the NURTW on loan, under the Zamfara State Loan Scheme. The Union has agreed to take part in identifying, supervising, and repaying for its members’ vehicles."

"Under this scheme, the vehicles were bought for N27,390,000.00 only. But the Government will give a 20% subsidy on the total cost of each vehicle."

"This is N5,478,000.00 per vehicle. So, each beneficiary will pay N21,912,000.00 per vehicle within 44 months after receiving the vehicle."

"We are also commissioning five fire trucks bought for better firefighting services."

"We know that fire outbreaks can destroy homes, shops, and livelihoods quickly. These new fire trucks, built to modern standards, will help the state fire service respond faster across all areas of the State."

"I urge the Fire Service to support these efforts by training its staff, running public fire-safety awareness campaigns, and keeping the equipment in good condition."

The Governor also stressed that the assets belong to the people of Zamfara State.

"I direct all MDAs and beneficiaries to send quarterly maintenance and usage reports to their respective offices. I want to stress that vandalism, misuse, or diversion will not be accepted."