Transportation is the backbone of any thriving economy, playing a pivotal role in commerce, mobility, and economic development. In Nigeria, where efficient transport systems remain a key factor in socio-economic progress, Benue Links Nigeria Limited has emerged as a leading public transport service provider, connecting cities, towns, and rural communities, in Nigeria, and Benue State, in particular.
Since the appointment of Comrade Alexander Aondohemba Fanafa as the General-Manager of the company on June 15, 2023, and his confirmation as substantive General Manager on May 28, 2024, Benue Links has undergone a remarkable transformation. Under the guidance of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the company has achieved significant milestones, cementing its place as a transportation powerhouse in Nigeria. Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, made this narrative different from the previous administrations.
One of the first major challenges that the attention of the Governor was drawn to, by the General-Manager of the company, Comrade Fanafa, was the perennial flooding at the company's headquarters in Makurdi. A standard box culvert and a water drainage channel were constructed, effectively addressing this issue. This infrastructure upgrade has improved access to the headquarters, ensuring that passengers, vehicles, and staff operate in a flood-free environment.
He erected the car porches , offering passengers and vehicles shade and protection from the elements. This improvement has not only boosted passenger experience but has also made the park more conducive for business operations.
Installation of solar lights and electronic signage is another significant milestone that has come to the admiration of teeming public. To improve security and visibility, Benue Links installed solar-powered streetlights across the Makurdi terminus, ensuring 24/7 illumination. Additionally, an electronic signpost was mounted, enhancing passenger information and branding. These innovations have improved safety and navigation, particularly for nighttime travelers.
Again, technological advancement and digitalization is sustained with the establishment of an ICT center for digital training and online booking.
Benue Links has taken a giant leap towards technological advancement with the creation, equipping, and commissioning of an ICT center. This facility is designed to train staff in digital literacy, preparing them for the soon-to-be-launched online booking system.
With the introduction of online ticketing, Benue Links has joined Nigeria’s leading transport providers in offering digital convenience to passengers, reducing the need for physical ticket purchases and enhancing customer experience.
As regards the introduction of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme for vehicle regulation. The company audited its Lease Vehicle (LV) scheme and transitioned to a Private Partnership (PP) scheme, effectively eliminating illegal operators and establishing a verifiable database of vehicles under the Benue Links brand. This move has enhanced accountability, improved service quality, and reinforced brand integrity.
Bridging the hitherto human capital and staff welfare. Clearing of salary arrears and ensuring prompt payment of wages. One of the most commendable achievements of Governor Alia, through his General-Manager, Fanafa’s administration, is the clearance of salary arrears, dating back to July, August, and September 2015. Additionally, monthly salaries are now paid promptly, fostering motivation, productivity, and industrial harmony.
The economics of the implementation of a N75,000 minimum wage for all staff. In alignment with the Governor's signing of the N75,000 minimum wage act, the company has fully implemented the new wage structure, ensuring that all employees receive fair and competitive salaries. This has significantly improved staff morale and job satisfaction.
Staff promotions and instant gratuity payments. For the first time in years, stalled staff promotions were implemented, and a policy of instant gratuity payments upon retirement was introduced. This development has strengthened career growth and retirement security for employees. On the reverse, there is a public welfarism scheme which has expanded of transport services and passenger welfare.
Benue Links has expanded its service reach by reopening previously closed routes, now operating from Makurdi to all 23 Local Government Headquarters in Benue State. This move has enhanced connectivity, economic activities, and accessibility for passengers.
Meanwhile, Benue Links has pioneered efforts of introduction of special travel policies for People Living with Disabilities (PLWDs). This has demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusivity, most especially as there a 50% discount on transport fares for (PLWDs). This initiative has made travel more affordable and accessible for the physically challenged community, courtesy of the Governor, as the custodian of Corporal Works of Mercy, a deliberate duty of all Priests, of the Roman Catholic church.
To cushion the effect of transportation cost hike, passengers are rather protected from exploitative pricing, hence, Governor Alia has reduced transport fares, setting a benchmark that prevents private operators from arbitrarily increasing fares for Benue citizens, and Nigerians as a whole. This intervention has made transportation more affordable for the people of Benue State.
Collaboration with FRSC, NDLEA, and VIO for safety and training. Benue Links has sustained partnerships with regulatory agencies such as the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO). These agencies conduct routine training, supervision, eye tests, and drug tests for drivers, ensuring passenger safety and compliance.
Transparent Driver Recruitment Process. The company has introduced a merit-based driver recruitment process, involving officials from FRSC and VIO to ensure that only competent, licensed, and disciplined drivers are employed, improving passenger safety and operational efficiency.
To regain its pride of place and recalibrate the company of the path financial stability, the company (in a landmark financial achievement), has redeemed her image when it was successfully delisted from AMCON’s blacklist of bad debtors after 12 years. This financial recovery restores credibility to the company, opening doors for future investments and expansions.
Quite commendable is the acquisition of new buses and infrastructure development to boost operations. The company procured ten (10) Toyota passenger buses and one (1) haulage bus, as well as the moribund mass transit Marco Polo buses, refurbished and redeployed for intra-city transport in Makurdi, addressing arbitrary pricing by private transporters. These (10) buses are procured as profits of the 100 brand new buses bought by the State Government under Governor Alia, and donated to the company on assumption of office.
Benue Links has expanded frog-reaped its contemporary in logistics, and haulage services, by securing registration as a National Courier Carrier under the Nigerian Postal Service. This diversification, broadens revenue streams and enhances service delivery.
In a landmark stride, the company has successfully secured permanent parks in Abuja, Adikpo (Kwande LGA), Zaki Biam (Ukum LGA), and Katsina-Ala, with advanced plans to finalize acquisitions in Gboko and Otukpo, respectively.
A modern car wash facility was constructed within the Makurdi terminus, ensuring timely cleaning of company vehicles for enhanced hygiene and maintenance.
With the active and continuous support from the Governor, Benue Links Nigeria Limited has revolutionized public transportation under the leadership of Fanafa. Through infrastructure upgrades, technological innovation, staff empowerment, and expansion of services, the company has solidified its position as a leading transport provider in Nigeria.
With a vision for continued growth and sustainability, Benue Links remains committed to affordable, safe, and efficient transportation, driving development and connectivity across Nigeria.
Donald Kumun, is the Principal Special Assistant to the Benue State Governor on Print Media, and writes from Makurdi, the capital of Benue.
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