The Nation Newspaper

Category: Transportation

  • LASG signs MoU to revolutionise parking management, ease gridlock

    LASG signs MoU to revolutionise parking management, ease gridlock

    The Lagos State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with Automat and i-Cell software solution providing companies as part of efforts to revolutionise the State Parking Management and ease traffic gridlock

    The partnership agreement was formalised by the General Manager, Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA), Mrs. Adebisi Adelabu with the representatives of Automata, Mr. Pereira Seun and the representatives of i-Cell, Mr. Hassan Fayad and Mr. Fayad Fayd 

    According to the General Manager, LASPA, the MoU agreement will help bring about the introduction of advanced technology and modern infrastructure into the Lagos State parking landscape.

    She further noted that the introduction of both the parking management software solutions as well as the soft and hardware applications for enforcement solutions by Automata and i-Cell respectively, are part of the State Government comprehensive plan to improve the state parking culture, reduce indiscriminate parking and enhance free flow of vehicular movement with the use of technology.

    Adelabu emphasised that the newly introduced parking management and enforcement solutions in the State will not only transform the current parking management processes in Lagos but also drive improvement in On-street parking.

    She further enumerated some of the benefits of the newly introduced parking management solutions to include; enhanced planning for better movement, knowledge of various parking locations across the State, enable booking for available parking slots from the comfort zones, reduce harassment of motorist by touts and illegal operators as well as support the vision for sustainable urban mobility.

    She enjoined motorist and Lagos residents to ensure compliance to the State Parking Regulations, stressing that LASPA, is resolute in the actualisation of its mandate 

  • Most tanker, trailer drivers lack valid driver’s licence, safety knowledge – Committee

    Most tanker, trailer drivers lack valid driver’s licence, safety knowledge – Committee

    The Drivers Training Committee has disclosed that most Articulated drivers in Nigeria lack valid driver’s licence and requisite road safety knowledge.

    The Committee was set up by the Ministry of Transportation following a directive by the National Assembly on the mandatory training and certification programme for trailer and tanker drivers.

    In a meeting on Thursday in Abuja with the Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Alkali, the committee said the drivers retraining programme was urgent, considering the increased rate of road accidents involving all categories of articulated vehicles.

     It noted over 80 per cent of the drivers do not know all they need to know for ensuring safe driving, adding that many of them do not have valid driver’s license, while some do not even have license.

    The Representative of the Committee and Country Director (Nigeria) of Driving Schools and Safety Alliance Africa, Jide Owatunmise called for urgent funding and approval for the implementation of the programme.

    He said, “As you have demonstrated your capability in securing funds to construct the bus terminals, we strongly believe you can also source funds to implement the driver’s retraining project to significantly reduce and eventually eliminate the crashes which have led to the loss of many lives and valuable properties. 

    “Over 80 per cent of these drivers do not know all they need to know for ensuring safe driving in all situations. Many of them do not have a valid driver’s license, while some do not even have a driver’s license at all.

    “The increasing rate of road crashes involving the drivers of articulated vehicles has made the proposed retraining program both crucial and urgent, to save irreplaceable lives and properties on Nigerian roads.

    “We humbly plead with you to use your good office to source funds for the un-delayed implementation of the drivers’ training and recertification programme as rightly directed by the National Assembly and passionately supported by you”.

    Read Also: Lagos to train 10,000 Maritime truck drivers to curb highway accidents

    The Minister, who was represented by the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Musa Ibrahim, assured that funds would be sourced to implement the training programme.

    He said, “The government of President Bola Tinubu is very prudent. The training was not envisaged in the budget of the ministry but be that as it may, we are looking for other ways around it to ensure that the training takes place.

    “On receipt of the complaint from the Office of the National Security Adviser and the same from the National Assembly, we moved into action and said this committee must sit and be effective. We are mindful of providing safe, efficient and affordable transportation for Nigerians.

    “The National Assembly is concerned, the National Security Adviser is concerned and the ministry is also concerned. So, we will get it done by God’s grace and achieve an accident-free road”.

  • LASTMA deploys drones to boost traffic control, security in Lagos

    LASTMA deploys drones to boost traffic control, security in Lagos

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has taken a bold step into the future of urban traffic control with the official deployment of drones to monitor traffic, enhance security surveillance, and improve public safety across the metropolis.

    The initiative, launched under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, signals a shift from traditional analog methods to advanced digital intelligence in line with the state’s THEMES+ Agenda.

    General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the deployment as a “watershed moment” for traffic management in Lagos, saying the drones will provide real-time aerial oversight to support swifter interventions and reduce travel disruptions.

    “This transition transcends the mere acquisition of equipment; it embodies a strategic reformation that positions LASTMA at the forefront of digital governance in traffic management,” 

    Bakare-Oki said. “These drones will provide real-time aerial oversight, enabling swifter interventions, improved safety outcomes, augmented emergency response coordination, bolstered security frameworks, and the cultivation of a more disciplined motoring culture.”

    He explained that the drones will empower LASTMA to move from reactive enforcement to predictive, intelligence-driven operations, noting that strict privacy safeguards, ethical standards, and regulatory compliance would guide their use.

    Read Also: LASTMA evacuates 130 tankers over illegal parking on Lagos roads, bridges

    The authority said the technology will strengthen its ability to respond promptly to emergencies, accidents, and other traffic-related incidents, complementing existing operations and the dedicated LASTMA Toll-Free Hotline: 080000527862.

    Bakare-Oki added that the deployment underscores Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to technology and innovation as indispensable drivers of a safer, smarter, and more habitable Lagos.

    “The deployment of these drones is a resounding testament to the THEMES+ Agenda of Governor Sanwo-Olu,” he said.

    Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, Mr. Adebayo Taofiq, reaffirmed LASTMA’s determination to continuously innovate in reducing travel time, preventing accidents, and safeguarding lives and property across Lagos.

  • Why we need to connect Nigeria by rails by Tinubu

    Why we need to connect Nigeria by rails by Tinubu

    • Kaduna-Kano rail ready for use next year, says Transport Minister

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given reasons for all parts of Nigeria should be connected with a modern railway system.

    He said the size of the country’s economy and population underscored the urgent need to link various parts of the country by rail.

    President Tinubu spoke yesterday in Abuja at the second International Railway Conference with the theme: Opportunities and Challenges in Railways Development in Africa.

    The President, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said: “Today, more than at any point in our journey as a nation, we are in great need of rail services for two compelling reasons. The size of our economy and the scale of our population – 230 million people – is ageing towards 250 million. And by 2050, we will be the third most populous nation on earth.

    READ ALSO: Five fun ways to spark children’s love for reading

    “We will surpass the United States and our population will hit 440 million people. The world has remained committed to railway services because they have proven to be the backbone of industrialisation, connecting more materials to factories, workers to opportunities, and farmers to markets. They shape not only economies, but also the cultural and social bonds of societies.

    “This enduring relevance explains why every forward-looking nation, from China to Vietnam, across generations, has invested in the railways as a special driver of development.

    “We cannot afford to lag if we seek to keep pace with global economic competitiveness. Thankfully, every part of this continent has embraced the reality of trains as a practical solution to our transportation challenges.

    “This transition aligns with the ambitions of our nations, for no economy can grow without sustainable means of mass transportation. It is the railway that connects cities, ports, and markets. And it is the railway that ensures that our dreams of integration are not limited by distance or geography.”

    President Tinubu said he looked forward to Nigeria taking the lead in the railway system across Africa, saying: “The challenge ahead of us is to lead this race as the logistics hub of Africa. By reviving and revitalising our railway services, we must be conscious of our place as the anchor of West Africa’s economy and home to the continent’s largest population, as we prepare for the adoption of modern railway infrastructure.

    “This awakening inspires projects, such as the Kano-Maradi railway modernisation, which opens new gateways for trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

    “Our agenda is shaped by the need to reduce the burden on our roads and highways. Decades of over-reliance on road transportation have led to congestion, rapid deterioration of infrastructure, and higher accident rates. Railways offer safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives, reducing carbon emissions, and reinforcing our commitment to sustainable development.”

    According to him, connecting the country through rail requires collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

    “The task of maximising the opportunities in the railway sector is not one we consider easy. It requires networks, partnerships, and robust collaboration with stakeholders. This is why our ongoing modernisation projects, Lagos to Kano, Kano to Maradi, and Port Harcourt to Maiduguri, are designed with open doors for private sector participation.”

    He hinted that the Kano-Maradi rail project, which was at five per cent when the administration assumed office, is approaching 60 per cent completion.

    Also, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, said the project has the potential to transform Nigeria’s infrastructure base and accelerate the country’s economic growth.

    Akume noted that the project, with its integrated components of high-speed rail, power generation, and transmission, LNG infrastructure, and digital backbone, offers opportunities for inclusive growth and national integration.

    But he cautioned that all aspects of the projects must be scrutinised.

    The Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali, said the Kaduna-Kano rail modernisation project was 53 per cent completed, and the Kano-Maradi was 60 per cent completed.

    He added that the Kaduna-Kano project would be ready for completion and inauguration by the end of next year.

    The minister said the Kano-Maradi project would reach Katsina by the end of this year and be ready for completion and inauguration by March 2027.

    Commenting on the need to connect Nigeria with other countries, Alkali said: “The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents an enormous opportunity. But without efficient logistics, our businesses cannot compete. That is why Nigeria’s Kano–Maradi corridor is more than a railway project; it is a gateway to West Africa’s markets, opening access for Nigerian goods into the Niger Republic and beyond.

    “As we modernise our railways, we are also positioning Nigeria as a logistics hub for West and Central Africa.

    “Another crucial dimension is the environmental impact. Rail is the greenest form of mass transport. Every tonne of cement or grain moved by train instead of trucks means fewer emissions, less road damage, and fewer accidents. In a world where climate commitments are shaping trade and investment, Nigeria’s ability to shift freight from road to rail will be a competitive advantage.”

  • Transportation, Blue Economy Ministers, others for TCAN summit

    Transportation, Blue Economy Ministers, others for TCAN summit

    Minister of Transportation, Senator Ahmed Sa’idu Alkali, and his Marine and Blue Economy counterpart, Gboyega Oyetola, have been confirmed to participate in the 2025 Transportation Correspondents Association of Nigeria (TCAN) Summit scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, in Lagos.

    The annual summit, which debuted in 2024, has quickly become a rallying point for policy makers, regulators, operators, and other critical stakeholders in the transport industry to interrogate sectoral challenges and chart fresh paths for growth.

    This year’s edition, the second in the series, will run under the theme: “Driving the Transport Logistics Value Chains for Economic Growth.”

    Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, will deliver the keynote address, while panel sessions will dissect topical issues, including intermodal cargo evacuation from the ports, the proposed waterways transportation code and the challenges of enforcement, “100 years of aviation in Nigeria: Gains and missed opportunities,” and maritime insecurity with its implications for trade routes.

    Read Also: TCAN commends Tinubu for inspiring New Year message

    Other participating agencies and institutions include the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA), Dangote Industries Limited, and Trucks Transit Park (TTP), among others.

    According to TCAN Chairman, Mr. Tola Adenubi, the summit has already generated robust interest across the transport value chain, reflecting the urgency of sector-wide collaboration.

    “We are thrilled by the interest this summit has generated and we are convinced that it would galvanise actions towards addressing the challenges of Nigeria’s transport logistics value chain,” Adenubi said.

    He stressed that sustainable reforms in transportation would only be achieved when stakeholders: operators, regulators, and investigators speak with one voice to optimise opportunities in the system.

    The TCAN chairman further advised agencies and companies in the transport industry to leverage the summit as a platform to showcase their contributions to national logistics development.

    TCAN, a subgroup of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), draws its membership from correspondents across major newspapers, television, and online media platforms dedicated to transportation coverage.

  • NRC addresses Port Harcourt-Aba train service disruption

    NRC addresses Port Harcourt-Aba train service disruption

    The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has provided an update on the recent suspension of the Port Harcourt-Aba train service, following a viral social media video showing stranded passengers trekking long distances and crossing a stream to seek alternative transportation. 

    The incident occurred on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, after a train breakdown at Imo River around 4:22 p.m.

    In a statement, the NRC expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers. 

    The corporation detailed the circumstances surrounding the incident, stating, “The train, which was on its way from Aba to Port Harcourt, suddenly developed an unusual fault and stopped functioning. Despite the best efforts of our engineers to revive the locomotive, the fault persisted. Consequently, an alternative engine, Loco 2306, was quickly deployed to rescue the stranded train.”

    READ ALSO: How Nigeria can achieve ICT’s 21% GDP target – MTN boss

    The statement, signed by Dr. Onyedikachi S. Onovo, District Public Relations Officer for the Eastern District, further noted that while some passengers opted for alternative routes to reach their destinations, others were safely conveyed back. The affected train has been returned to Port Harcourt and is undergoing comprehensive repairs to meet the corporation’s enhanced quality control standards.

    The NRC urged affected passengers to visit its stations in Port Harcourt or Aba with proof of payment to access possible refunds or replacement train rides. 

    “We appreciate the concerns raised by the general public and deeply value the patience and understanding shown by our passengers during this period,” the statement added.

    Reaffirming its commitment to improving rail services, the NRC emphasized its alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda and its rail revitalization programme. 

    The corporation assured Nigerians of its dedication to providing safer, more reliable, and customer-friendly rail services across the country.

    Normal train operations on the Port Harcourt-Aba corridor are set to resume on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, the statement concluded.

  • NRC suspends Port Harcourt-Aba train service

    NRC suspends Port Harcourt-Aba train service

    The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), has announced the suspension of the Port Harcourt-Aba train service.

    The Managing Director of NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa said the service was suspended due to maintenance.

    He added that regular train services would resume on the train corridor on the 9th of September, 2025.

    READ ALSO: Epidemic looms in Lagos’ largest estate as re-commissioned water project fails

    The statement signed yesterday  by Opeifa reads: “Port-Harcourt to Aba train services suspended for routine maintenance. To resume regular train services on the 9th of September 2025. We regret all inconveniences.”

    The management of NRC had earlier  suspended the Abuja-Kaduna train services in August after a Kaduna-bound train derailed at Asham station with 618 persons on board.

    No fewer than seven passengers sustained varying degrees of injury in the accident.

  • UNILORIN Alumni applaud Opeifa’s promptness on derailment 

    UNILORIN Alumni applaud Opeifa’s promptness on derailment 

    The University of Ilorin Alumni Association (Lagos State Chapter) has commiserated with the Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, over the recent train derailment incident.

    The association expressed gratitude to God that no life was lost, describing the incident as “a temporary setback.”

    The association also reaffirmed its solidarity with Dr. Opeifa, noting his trajectory of accomplishments — from his role as Transportation Secretary in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, to his unprecedented coordination of LASTMA in Lagos State — remains a reassuring testament to his competence and energy. 

    READ ALSO: Burna Boy’s mom celebrates 35 years of marriage

    It said in a statement by Lagos chairperson Engr Isiwat A. Lawal and General Secretary Barr J.J Ajadi : “We believe Dr Opeifa’s promptness saved the nation from unnecessary embarrassment.

    “Under Dr. Opeifa’s purposeful leadership, we are confident that the NRC will attain enviable heights and deliver excellent services Nigerians will celebrate.”

    The Alumni body assured Opeifa of its prayers and unwavering support as he continues to reposition the NRC for greater efficiency and national pride.

  • Opeifa provides update on Nigeria Railway national plan

    Opeifa provides update on Nigeria Railway national plan

    The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Dr Kayode Opeifa, has listed measures that would further boost the repositioning of the nation’s legacy railway agency, prevent recurrence of accidents and return it to the path of sustainability.

    Opeifa, at an interactive session with journalists, at the NUJ FCT Centre, Abuja, on Monday, said he remained focused on giving to Nigerians a new train travel experience either on the narrow or standard gauge rail lines.

    Among other measures he outlined are institutional reforms, management restructuring, financial sustainability and deepening customers experience, all of which, he said, are part of measures being implemented under his watch.

    Also outlined are measures aimed at optimizing the use of the two narrow and standard gauges, freight revolution by train, and optimizing track access by the state governments, while he added that there are efforts by the Federal Government to complete all ongoing rail infrastructure for national development.

    He assured that the Tinubu administration is committed to the transformation of the railway adding that most of these initiatives are already nearing fruits.

    Read Also: NRC MD Opeifa apologises to media over verbal assault on NTA journalist

    Opeifa also took time to offer a public apology for the altercation between him and the Transportation Editor of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and former National President of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Ladi Bala, as well as the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Management, as well as all Nigerian journalists.

    He reassured of his commitment to the deepening of the media space and a greater collaboration with the media. 

    On the situation report on the train accident, Opeifa said well over 500 of the 618 passengers who traveled in the train have been contacted by the now rejigged customer relations unit of the corporation. 

    Many of the injured passengers, he further added, were traced even as far as to Zaria, where they were contacted by a team led by himself, the AKTS resident doctor and the NRC Abuja Liaison Officer.

    The NRC chief also disclosed that the third coach has been rerailed, by men of the corporation, making a total of three coaches and a locomotive that have been removed from the scene of the accident. 

    He said his office is directly monitoring situation regarding the accident and urged anyone who knows any of the passengers who are receiving treatment in any hospital to come forward as the corporation is committed to taking care of their medical bills apart from refunding them their travel fares.

    He maintained that the Abuja -Kaduna Train Service is safe and secured and assured Nigerians of the determination of the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the NRC to restore the tracks and recommence commercial operation on the line as soon as possible.

    He said the Corporation is poised to strength it’s institutional restriction, optimizing what it has, with more public sector participation in rail development, and repairing and refurnishing all abandoned locomotives and fixed and rolling stocks, and embarking on aggressive freight by railing revolution which is gaining rapid momentum.

    Other initiative are building more collaborations with development commissions and states to adopt the Track Access Program to create interstate train services for the use of more Nigerians and the continued modernisation of its infrastructure.

    Opeifa reiterated that while the Asham incident is a sad development, it has further reinforced his commitment to continue to push forward the realization of the corporation’s vision 5:10:20, which ultimately would ensure the realization of the use of renewable energy for operations, moving from diesel to gas, and the introduction of high speed train into the nation’s transportation system, with a huge Public Private Participation arrangement to deepen sustainability.

  • FERMA, GCPRC sign strategic framework to boost Nigeria–China road cooperation

    FERMA, GCPRC sign strategic framework to boost Nigeria–China road cooperation

    The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has entered into a Long-Term Strategic Framework Agreement (LSFA) with the Global Cooperation Promotion Research Centre (GCPRC), setting the stage for a new era of collaboration in Nigeria’s road maintenance and infrastructure management.

    The agreement, signed on Wednesday at FERMA headquarters in Abuja, formalises a partnership between Nigeria’s statutory road maintenance body and the GCPRC, an international think tank established in Nigeria in February 2025 under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. 

    The cooperation framework includes provisions for regular communication channels, joint project planning, and FERMA’s authorisation for GCPRC to coordinate business activities with Chinese partners. 

    It will remain in force for two years, with an option for renewal, requiring strict adherence to anti-corruption measures, Nigerian law, and transparency frameworks such as the Public Procurement Act.

    GCPRC focuses on fostering global cooperation, promoting South-South partnerships, and deepening strategic relations between Nigeria and China.

    Read Also: FERMA chief gives Tinubu kudos on road infrastructure

    Under the agreement, both organisations will cooperate in federal road network maintenance, transportation security, and road asset management, drawing on China’s expertise in modern road infrastructure. 

    The framework emphasises technology transfer, innovative road policies, and capacity building to strengthen Nigeria’s ability to sustainably manage its road network.

    FERMA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Emeka Agbasi, described the signing as a milestone for Nigeria’s infrastructure ambitions, saying, “Our mandate has always been to maintain and improve the federal road network. 

    “Through this agreement with GCPRC, we are positioning ourselves to adopt global best practices in road asset management, maintenance technology, and capacity building. 

    “This collaboration will not only improve the condition and safety of our roads but also strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to sustainably manage critical infrastructure well into the future.”

    GCPRC Head, Mr. Li Zhensheng, said the agreement demonstrates a shared vision for development.

    “GCPRC is proud to partner with FERMA on this strategic initiative. This partnership is not only about roads; it is about economic growth, industrial integration, and deeper cooperation that benefits both Nigeria and China. 

    “We are committed to promoting technology transfer and helping Nigeria achieve international standards in infrastructure management,” Zhensheng noted.

    Officials said the deal lays the foundation for transforming Nigeria’s federal road network, boosting sustainable infrastructure development, and expanding Nigeria-China strategic cooperation.