Sallah free train ride attracts about 2000 holidaymakers– Osun govt.
The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke. Photo: State House
Sallah free train ride attracts about 2000 holidaymakers– Osun govt.
The Osun State Government has said that no fewer than 2,000 holidaymakers returning to the state for the Eid-el-Kabir celebration have benefited from the free train service.
The travellers boarded the train from Lagos and Ibadan and arrived at the Osogbo Train Station in the early hours of Friday, where they were welcomed by friends, family members, and state officials.
According to a statement by the Information Officer of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ademiotan Adegbulugbe, the large crowd of beneficiaries was warmly received by the Osun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr. Bunmi Jenyo, alongside other top government functionaries.
Addressing journalists at the station, Jenyo explained that the free train ride—branded the Imole Free Train Ride—was part of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s ongoing efforts to ease the financial burden on citizens, especially during festive seasons.
“This initiative is fully sponsored by the state government to assist our people in returning home for the Eid celebrations without incurring transport costs,” he said. “Beyond that, passengers were also allowed to bring their goods along at no extra charge.”
Jenyo noted that due to the overwhelming response from travelers in Lagos, Governor Adeleke had directed the immediate addition of extra coaches to ensure no one was left behind.
“This gesture reflects the Governor’s strong commitment to the welfare of Osun indigenes,” Jenyo added.
He described the turnout as unprecedented and praised Adeleke for sustaining the programme, which he described as a “people-oriented initiative.”
One of the beneficiaries, Kabiru Mustapha, shared his experience with journalists.
“This is my first time using the train, and I’m truly impressed by the comfort and organisation. I thank the Governor for this wonderful opportunity,” he said.
