The Pastor-in-Charge of Youth Province One, The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Joseph Palace, FESTAC, Lagos, Leke Adeboye, has declared that fueling the free buses providing transportation between Lagos and Ogun States to Nigerians cost the church over N63m in just seven weeks.
The initiative, spearheaded by the church, involved 10 buses shuttling commuters between key routes in Lagos, including 7up, Victoria Island, FESTAC, CMS, Ikorodu and Mowe in Ogun State.
Adeboye told newsmen on Saturday that in addition to covering transportation, RCCG 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.
He revealed that each bus carried 80 passengers per trip, completing two daily trips, five days a week.
Also, over the period, the buses transported 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.
According to Adeboye, this initiative saved each passenger an average of ₦40,000 weekly.
“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.
The province, in September, announced in a statement that “The initiative aims to ease transportation costs while also providing spiritual care and guidance.
The statement disclosed that buses will depart from Mowe, Ibafo, Berger, and 7UP at Car Park C (near Redemption City) to CMS, as well as from Festac, RCCG Joseph’s Palace, Apple Junction, to Victoria Island and Lekki.”