Commercial bus drivers in Owerri, Imo State capital celebrated in jubilation as the Goodluck Nwaneri Foundation launched an ambitious free fuel distribution initiative aimed at alleviating the economic hardship faced by low-income earners in Imo State.
The programme, designed to last for eight days and cover different parts of Owerri, kicked off at the Amakohia/Akwakuma Orlu Road axis, with Coecean Filling Station serving as the distribution hub for the first phase. Over 4,000 bus drivers are expected to benefit from the humanitarian project, with at least 1,000 drivers receiving free fuel on the first day alone.
Flagging off the initiative, the Director General of the Goodluck Nwaneri Foundation, Mr. Goodluck Nwaneri, underscored the essence of the gesture, describing it as a mission to reduce the burden of soaring economic challenges on bus drivers, who play a critical role in the state’s transportation sector.
“We launched this initiative to help our people cope with the harsh economic realities. The Goodluck Nwaneri Foundation is committed to promoting goodness, peace, and economic prosperity. This program has no political undertone—I am not a politician; I am a businessman. We believe in impacting lives positively,” Nwaneri stated.
He also revealed that the initiative would span other strategic locations in Owerri over the coming days, ensuring that more commercial bus drivers benefit from the philanthropic gesture.
Amajuoyi Favour, the programme’ s coordinator, affirmed that the initiative was a selfless act of generosity aimed at reaching as many drivers as possible without discrimination. “This effort is purely humanitarian and geared towards touching lives in meaningful ways,” she noted.
Expressing gratitude for the free fuel distribution, Unegbu Ozioma Gospel, Chairman of the Bus Drivers Association, Amakohia/Akwakuma, hailed the program as a groundbreaking gesture. “This act of kindness is truly remarkable and highly commendable. It demonstrates the Foundation’s genuine concern for the welfare of everyday people,” Unegbu remarked.
Numerous beneficiaries could not contain their excitement. Drivers like Maxwell Ihuoma, Nwoke Ochiabuto Nzendu, and Prince Egeonu Uzoma shared their heartfelt appreciation for the initiative, describing it as a life-changing opportunity.
“This is a rare gesture. At a time when many of us are struggling to even afford basic necessities, this free fuel has come as a huge relief. We pray for God to bless and sustain the Goodluck Nwaneri Foundation so they can continue their impactful work,” one of the beneficiaries stated.
Public policy analysts commended the Good luck Nwaneri Foundation for the initiative, which they described is not just about free fuel—but symbolizes hope for many commercial bus drivers struggling under the weight of economic difficulties.
As the programme progresses to other locations in Owerri, anticipation grows among transporters across the State capital, with many looking forward to benefiting from the Foundation’s magnanimity.
