The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has revealed the cost of its ambitious free bus initiative, which has been easing the transportation burden for thousands of commuters between Lagos and Ogun states. In just seven weeks, the church spent over N63 million on fuel alone, highlighting the scale of this social intervention program.
- N63 million spent on fuel in seven weeks.
- 56,000 passengers transported.
- N10 million spent on driver welfare and volunteer support.
- Routes include key locations across Lagos and Ogun State.
- Open to everyone regardless of religious beliefs.
Easing the Commute: A Costly Endeavor
The RCCG’s free bus initiative, spearheaded by Pastor Leke Adeboye, has been a major undertaking. The church deployed 10 buses across strategic routes connecting Lagos and Ogun State, including 7up, Victoria Island, FESTAC, CMS, Ikorodu, and Mowe. The program runs five days a week, with each bus making two round trips daily, carrying 80 passengers per trip. This translates to a significant number of people benefiting from free transportation.
More Than Just a Ride
Beyond simply providing transport, the church also took care of the welfare of the bus drivers and volunteers who helped manage the program. While passengers waited, these volunteers shared messages from Open Heavens, the church’s daily devotional. The combined cost of fueling the buses and supporting the drivers and volunteers amounted to over N73 million.
Impact on Commuters’ Wallets
With transportation costs continuously on the rise, this initiative offered significant relief to commuters. Pastor Adeboye estimates that the program saved each passenger an average of N40,000 over the seven-week period. This represents a substantial saving, particularly for those who rely on public transport daily.
Open to All
A notable aspect of the program is its inclusivity. The free bus service was open to everyone, irrespective of religious affiliation, social status, or background. Passengers included Christians, Muslims, atheists, students, military personnel, and law enforcement officers. The church emphasized that this initiative was a way of giving back to the community and easing the financial burden on Nigerians.
A Testament to Community Service
The RCCG’s free bus initiative stands as a significant example of a religious organization actively engaging in community service. While the costs involved are substantial, the positive impact on the lives of thousands of commuters is undeniable. The program demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility and a practical approach to alleviating the challenges faced by many Nigerians.
Looking Ahead
The church has indicated its intention to continue and possibly expand the program. Given the positive reception and the significant impact on the community, it is likely that this initiative will continue to make a difference in the lives of many commuters in the Lagos and Ogun State areas.
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