Leke Adeboye, the Pastor-in-Charge of Youth Province One at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Joseph Palace in FESTAC, Lagos, has revealed that the church spent over N63 million on fuel in just seven weeks for its free bus initiative, which has been providing transportation between Lagos and Ogun States.
The initiative, led by RCCG, involved 10 buses running routes between key locations in Lagos, including 7up, Victoria Island, FESTAC, CMS, Ikorodu, and Mowe in Ogun State. The buses were made available to commuters of all backgrounds, regardless of their faith or social status, offering free rides to thousands of Nigerians.
Adeboye disclosed that the initiative transported an estimated 56,000 people during this period. Each bus carried 80 passengers per trip, completing two daily trips, five days a week. The buses served a diverse range of people, including Christians, Muslims, students, military personnel, law enforcement officers, and even non-Nigerians.
In addition to covering transportation costs, RCCG also ensured the welfare of drivers and volunteers, who used their waiting times to preach messages from Open Heavens, the church’s daily devotional. This aspect of the program alone cost the church N10 million.
According to Adeboye, the initiative significantly reduced commuting costs for many Nigerians. He emphasized that, on average, each passenger saved ₦40,000 weekly, highlighting the church’s commitment to alleviating the financial burdens of everyday Nigerians.
“The free buses were open to all—Nigerians and non-Christians, Muslims, traditionalists, atheists, students, military personnel, and everyone from all walks of life,” Adeboye explained. “This is our way of easing the financial burden on Nigerians while serving humanity without discrimination.”
The initiative was launched to ease transportation costs and provide spiritual care and guidance. According to a statement from RCCG in September, the buses operated between various locations in Lagos and Ogun State, including Mowe, Ibafo, Berger, and 7UP at Car Park C (near Redemption City) to CMS, and from Festac, RCCG Joseph’s Palace, Apple Junction, to Victoria Island and Lekki.