The Plateau State Government on Saturday, May 17, took delivery of 15 new Metro buses in its bid to boost its ongoing efforts to improve public transportation and ease the commuting burden on residents across the state.
The new buses which arrived in Jos amid fanfare and joyous celebration by residents, signaled another milestone in Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s commitment to providing affordable and subsidized transportation under the Tin City Metro initiative.
The 15 new buses brings the total number of buses in the state fleet to 28 after the government had earlier procured 13 buses in February 2024.
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Samuel N. Jatau, who addressed journalists at a reception to receive the buses, said the development was a fulfillment of promises made by the Mutfwang-led administration to the people of the state.
“This is a clear indication that we are delivering on our word. When we promised Plateau people more buses, it wasn’t just talk—we meant it,” Jatau stated.
“With the initial fleet, we were transporting about 9,000 passengers daily. With these additional 15 buses, we expect to reach up to 20,000 passengers per day. We will also open more routes to serve more areas,” Jatau said.
The SSG also acknowledged the current limitations in extending services to local government areas due to poor road infrastructure, but assured citizens that plans were underway to deploy alternative vehicles, such as coaster buses and smaller cars, to improve access across the state.
“Fixing rural roads is part of the broader development agenda. We are just halfway through the governor’s first term, and people are already experiencing the dividends of democracy. The next two years will bring even more progress,” he added.
Also speaking at the reception, the General Manager of Plateau Express Services, Samuel Gwott, said described the latest deployment as Tin City Metro 2.0 is aimed at expanding service delivery and creating employment opportunities.
“We’re strengthening existing routes and reducing waiting times. New routes like Vom to Heipang and Rukuba Road are being introduced. We are also engaging local government stakeholders to extend services to underserved areas.
“We have a robust maintenance system, trained staff, and a well-equipped workshop. After one year of consistent service, we’re confident in sustaining and improving transportation services for the people of Plateau,’ Gwott said.
The GM also assured that the Metro team is well-equipped to handle operations effectively.
