From JOHNSON NONGU, Makurdi
Benue Links Nigeria Limited says it has expanded its interstate operations across several states of the federation as part of a wider turnaround that has seen the state-owned transport company grow significantly under the current management.
The General Manager, Comrade Alexander Fanafa, disclosed this on Monday in Makurdi while briefing journalists to mark his third year in office.
He said the expansion was achieved despite the company inheriting fewer than 20 functional vehicles when the current management took over in June 2023.
Fanafa attributed the turnaround to the support of Governor Hyacinth Alia, whose administration donated 100 buses in November 2023, alongside additional acquisitions by the company, including 30 more buses to strengthen operations.
According to him, Benue Links now operates in several parts of the country, including Sokoto, Borno, Katsina, Edo and other routes where it previously had limited or no presence.
He said the expansion forms part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at repositioning the company for improved efficiency and wider national coverage.
Fanafa explained that the company also inherited several operational challenges, including a weak fleet, inadequate infrastructure and persistent flooding at its terminal.
He said the flooding problem had since been addressed through drainage construction and culverts, while the terminal was upgraded with improved flooring, solar lighting and general environmental refurbishment.
He added that passenger experience had improved through the installation of shelters and enhanced lighting systems across the terminal.
The General Manager said staff strength had also increased, with the number of drivers rising from 89 to over 130 as operations expanded.
“There is no casual staff in Benue Links,” he said, stressing that all employees are properly engaged and documented.
Fanafa noted that the company had also diversified into haulage operations following the donation of trucks and its registration as a national carrier.
He said an online booking platform introduced about 14 months ago now allows passengers to make reservations remotely.
On security, he said night journeys have been suspended, while drivers undergo continuous training on safety and emerging road risks.
He described the expansion as a major milestone in the company’s transformation and commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for supporting efforts to reposition Benue Links for improved service delivery.