C’River approves purchase of 150 mini buses to empower less-privileged

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State. PHOTO: Cross River Govt.

Kindly share this story:

The Cross River State government has approved the direct procurement of 150 Daihatsu Hijet mini buses as part of a new empowerment initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable and less-privileged groups across the state’s three senatorial districts.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Transport, Ekpenyong Cobham, and released on Friday in Calabar, the initiative was described as “more than a routine procurement, but a strategic intervention designed to restore dignity, hope, and economic independence at the grassroots.”

He noted that many households across the state still grapple with “the stark reality of economic exclusion,” despite ongoing reforms by the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

“The Cross River State government has approved the direct procurement of 150 units of Daihatsu Hijet mini buses as part of a new empowerment initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable and less-privileged groups across the state’s three senatorial districts.

“The Otu-led administration has made significant strides in poverty reduction, but the need to provide direct, productive tools to the most disadvantaged remains urgent. For the vulnerable, poverty is not a statistic; it is a daily struggle for survival. This initiative seeks to move our people from dependence to productivity,” the statement read.

According to the statement, “The approved minibuses will be distributed equitably, with 50 units allocated to the Northern, Central, and Southern senatorial zones,” a structure the Transport Commissioner said ensures “balanced development and inclusivity across all regions.”

“It emphasized that the vehicles would support small-scale enterprises, boost rural transportation, and stimulate commercial activity,” the statement added.

Highlighting the economic impact, Cobham described the minibuses as “productive assets capable of transforming 150 beneficiary groups into viable micro-enterprises,” with ripple effects expected in job creation, transport accessibility, and local commerce.

“This project stands as a cornerstone of the administration’s mid-term achievements, demonstrating a clear, impactful use of state resources.”

He noted that the Daihatsu Hijet model was chosen for its durability, fuel economy, and suitability for commercial transport in both urban and rural terrains.

“It is a tested and trusted vehicle for high-frequency, low-cost mobility,” an official familiar with the procurement explained. “We expect these units to serve the beneficiaries for many years.”

The direct procurement, he said, was recommended to fast-track delivery. “The direct procurement allows for complete acquisition and distribution within the 2025 fiscal year, ensuring immediate impact on the lives of the people.

“With the approval, the appropriate agency is expected to commence procurement processes immediately and begin distribution to beneficiaries across the three senatorial districts,” he added.

Kindly share this story:

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]

UPDATE NEWS: Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25Million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, 👉 click here to find out how it work (Be sure to ask for evidence of clients that have benefitted from this)

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!

Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.