The Nation Newspaper

Category: Transportation

  • NURTW worsens as national officers knock Southwest chairmen

    NURTW worsens as national officers knock Southwest chairmen

    The crisis rocking the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has taken another dimension as the National Vice President of the Union, Chief Folorunsho Salami and a Trustee of the union, Alhaji Abideen Olajide, otherwise known as Ejiogbe knocked Southwest chairmen of the union over an online publication captioned: “South-West NURTW chairmen slam Baruwa over accusations against Gbajabiamila”.

    A statement jointly signed by the duo condemned in strong terms an attempt to undermine the rule of law and the constitution of the Union.

    The statement condemns recent actions of the southwest council chairmen, who according to them have defended interference in the affairs of NURTW by All Progressive Congress (APC) bigwig from Lagos.

    The statement read in part: “It is most unfortunate and disgusting to note that some ill-informed persons parading as southwest chairmen are trying to justify the flagrant disregard for the rule of law and the constitution of our union.

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    “The actions of these illegitimate so-called southwest chairmen are a clear indication of their loyalty to personal interests rather than the well-being of our members.”

    Both Folorunso Salamu and Abideen Olajide Ejiogbe who also double as the Osun and Oyo States chairmen of the Union further stated that: “The utterances of the chairmen in the online publication has gone further to confirm our suspicion/claims that the chief of staff has a hand in the blatant disregard to the rule of law by MC Oluomo.

    “Or how else can one explain the fact that it is the illegitimate so called southwest chairmen that are now the mouthpiece of the chief of staff. We must not fail to remind these lawless apologists that they are committing contempt of court.

    “The NURTW national leadership has consistently maintained that the imposition of MC Oluomo as the union’s leader is illegal and unconstitutional. We have taken our grievances to the courts, and the judiciary has ruled in our favor.

    “Despite this, the Lagos APC bigwig has continued to support and sponsor MC Oluomo’s illegitimate claim to leadership. This is a clear case of undue interference and an attempt to undermine the democratic processes of our union.

    “We (Folorunso Salami and Abideen Olajide Ejiogbe) call on the general public to reject this brazen attempt to hijack our union while urging our members to remain calm and focused, as we continue to fight for justice and democracy within our union.

    “On a final note, we hereby request the chief of staff to kindly leave our union alone in the interest of peace, law, and order.”

  • AfDB to partner LAMATA in developing Lagos purple rail line, others

    AfDB to partner LAMATA in developing Lagos purple rail line, others

    • Marina – Mile 2 interchanged unveiled

    The Lagos transport system has received a boost from the African Development Bank (AfDB) with a promise to work with the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) to develop another rail line.

    AfDB Vice President, Private Sector Infrastructure and Industrialisation, Mr. Solomon Quaynor, gave the assurance while on a visit to LAMATA in the company of Mr. Mayowa Ayodele, Non-Sovereign Operations and Private Sector Equity Specialist, ahead of a visit of the technical team to assess the Purple line.

    The Purple Line is a 60-kilometer railroad running from the Redemption Camp in Ogun State, traversing Berger, Agege and Alimoso and terminating at Volkswagen to join the Blue Line.

    The visit follows a recent pitch for investment on the 60-kilometre Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Purple Line at the African Development Bank forum in Morocco, where the Lagos delegation was led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

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    The delegation toured the LRMT Blue Line and expressed satisfaction with the progress of the Blue Line rail system.

    Meanwhile, LAMATA has unveiled the Marina and Mile 2 interchange to transform public transport in Lagos State..

    Speaking at a media briefing on the Marina and Mile2 interchange project, Akinaho described the project as a major interchange for Lagos State.

    ” All modes of transportation road, water, and rail will be integrated at this interchange. The vision is to ensure that when people change modes of transportation, they can do so within a short period, ideally in less than 3 to 5 minutes. Passengers will be able to disembark from a train and immediately board a bus to complete their journey.

    Akinajo emphasized that LAMATA is pursuing this interchange project to develop Lagos to the point where public transportation becomes the natural first choice for residents, who will be assured of a seamless journey from start to finish. While there are about 13 interchanges planned, Marina and Mile2 are the two major ones. She also mentioned that the project is expected to be completed within 13 months, with a 15-month contract in place, aiming for readiness by the beginning of 2026.”

    Akinajo added that LAMATA has maintained excellent cooperation with the local community, stating, “We engage them.” She added that the overarching goal is to keep people informed about the developments. “We’ve done a lot of advocacy, held numerous discussions, and liaised with local government chairmen. We present the vision of the state, explaining what we are bringing to each locality. Once people see the benefits, they begin to support the initiative.”

  • China Development Bank grants $254.76m facility for Kano-Kaduna railway project

    China Development Bank grants $254.76m facility for Kano-Kaduna railway project

    China Development Bank said that it has approved a loan of $254.76 million (€245 million) for the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria. According to information on the bank’s website, the funding is expected to provide crucial financial support for the ongoing development of the railway, ensuring the project proceeds without delays. The Kano-Kaduna railway is a standard-gauge line spanning 203 kilometers, designed to connect Kano, a major commercial hub in northern Nigeria, to the nation’s capital, Abuja. When completed, the railway will offer residents a safe, efficient, and convenient transportation alternative, significantly enhancing regional connectivity.

    Beyond improved mobility, the railway project is poised to stimulate economic activity along its route. It is expected to promote the growth of related industries and generate numerous job opportunities for Nigerians during both the construction and operational phases. The project has been highlighted as a key initiative under the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. It is being executed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), with financing provided by the CDB. According to the bank, construction is progressing smoothly. The CDB emphasized its commitment to continued collaboration with the Nigerian government to ensure the timely disbursement of funds and effective management of subsequent phases of the project.

    The bank said: “going forward, it will closely coordinate with Nigerian partners to ensure the smooth disbursement of subsequent loans and effective post-loan management.”

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    Last year, the Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, said that China has committed to funding the Ibadan-Abuja and Kaduna-Kano sections of the Lagos-Kano railway under the Belt and Road Initiative.

    The Minister had said that most of the ongoing rail projects were awarded under an EPC+F (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Financing) model. This model requires 15 per cent counterpart funding from the federal government, with the remaining 85 per cent expected to be sourced through loans. Alkali, however, said securing funds from banks has been challenging, as financial institutions perceive significant risk associated with railway projects and are hesitant to proceed with the loan arrangements. Consequently, China was approached to help fund some of these projects. President Bola Tinubu also assured that the Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano railway project would be completed to the satisfaction of Nigeria and West Africa at large

  • Julius Berger’s Dedication to Community and Stakeholder Satisfaction

    Julius Berger’s Dedication to Community and Stakeholder Satisfaction

    The indices of development in a community are multifaceted, encompassing economic growth, social development, and infrastructural progress. Among these, infrastructure—access to clean water, sanitation, reliable electricity, transportation networks, and communication—is crucial for driving both economic growth and social well-being. In the Niger Delta, where challenging terrain has historically hindered development, infrastructure becomes even more essential.

    For decades, communities in the region faced isolation due to swampy terrain, tidal movements, and dense forests. Breaking through these barriers required a construction project like the Bodo-Bonny Road project. Spanning 37.9 kilometers and comprising 17 bridges, Julius Berger is building more than a road as this is a lifeline for the communities of Bodo and Bonny Island.

    From the outset, Julius Berger recognised the importance of engaging with the communities directly affected by the project. Through consistent dialogue with local leaders and stakeholders, the company has fostered a sense of ownership and trust. The Peace Committee Mainland Bodo and the Bonny Kingdom Development Committee have played pivotal roles in rallying community support for the project.

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    Leaders and residents have hailed the road’s progress as an “answered prayer,” highlighting how it bridges physical and economic divides. Chief John Jumbo, a leader in the Peace Committee Mainland Bodo, expressed the collective optimism: “Each new day we wake up to see brings us closer to our dream of walking and driving on the Bodo-Bonny Road for the first time. I want this road completed in my lifetime and by Julius Berger.”

    Chief Dr. Osohooy Rogers Longjohn, head of the Longjohn Major House of Grand Bonny Kingdom, echoed these sentiments: “We have been isolated from our brothers on this route because of the difficult terrain over the decades. Julius Berger’s involvement has brought a glimmer of hope.”

    Chief Longjohn elaborated on the broader implications: “We boast some of the best in industry and commerce today in the country. But many of our talents are scattered in cities across the world due to the challenges of our environment. With the road’s completion, we will connect our communities and transform this region into Nigeria’s new land of opportunities.”

    Chief Jumbo praised Julius Berger’s resilience, stating: “Where others have tried and failed, Julius Berger is taking us closer to reality. We hope it will not be long before we walk from Bodo to Bonny Island.” This sense of hope underscores the mutual respect between Julius Berger and the communities it serves.

    Set for completion in January 2026, the Bodo-Bonny Road project exemplifies Julius Berger’s dedication to excellence and stakeholder satisfaction. Despite formidable challenges, the progress made so far is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to transforming lives through infrastructure.

    The Bodo-Bonny Road is poised to transform the Niger Delta. Beyond providing a physical connection, it promises to reduce transportation costs, enhance trade routes, and attract investments. For the residents of Bodo and Bonny Island, the road represents hope, resilience, and the power of collaboration.

  • Bodo-Bonny Road: Julius Berger Workforce Maintains Steady Work, Holidays Regardless

    Bodo-Bonny Road: Julius Berger Workforce Maintains Steady Work, Holidays Regardless

    In the spirit of progress and dedication, workers on the Bodo-Bonny Road project, a transformative construction project awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, have continued their efforts undeterred by the Yuletide season. For many, the opportunity to contribute to the development of their communities through this landmark infrastructure project is a source of pride and fulfillment.

    The 37.9 km road project, which connects Bodo in Gokana Local Government Area to Bonny Island in Rivers State, stands as a beacon of hope for the operational communities. Julius Berger’s workforce, comprising a significant number of local indigenes, has been steadfast in their commitment to ensuring the project’s timely completion despite the challenging technical and logistical demands.

    The construction of this critical infrastructure requires specialized techniques and construction methodologies, including extensive sand filling for soil stabilization, to ensure a suitable foundation for construction. The project also necessitates meticulous planning and coordination by the workforce and their supervisors, further underscoring the skill and precision involved in executing this project.

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    During the holiday season, workers were seen diligently engaged in other activities such as base course installation, and sand-cement stabilization at key sections, including Apha Creek Bridge and Opobo Channel Bridge, the sight of heavy equipment from leading manufacturers like Caterpillar and Volvo further revealed the scale and complexity of the project.

    Speaking about the project, John Hart, a member of the project team from Gokana, shared the pride he and his colleagues feel about the project, “This road means everything to us. It connects our people to opportunities and development. For those of us working here, it’s more than a job, it’s our contribution to building a future for our communities. Even during the holidays, we’re happy to give our all.”

    Appreciating the team’s dedication, The Project Manager, Tim Nippert noted that, “Our workforce continues to exceed expectations. Working through the holidays and navigating the difficult terrain demonstrates their resolve and passion for delivering this project. Their ability to maintain steady progress under these conditions is truly remarkable.”

    The Bodo-Bonny Road project is a critical component of Nigeria’s infrastructure development agenda. Featuring a 2-lane road with hard shoulders, 17 bridges spanning 3,200 meters, and reinforced concrete pavement on Bonny Island, it is designed to overcome environmental challenges while improving connectivity and stimulating socio-economic growth.

  • FG vows to penalise vehicle owners damaging roads

    FG vows to penalise vehicle owners damaging roads

    …launches ‘operation safeguard our roads’

    The Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, has warned that penalties await vehicle owners responsible for damaging roads across the country.

    Speaking on Tuesday during an inspection of the 58km road repairs by FERMA at Mamman Suka town on the Sokoto-Illela federal road, Goronyo revealed that the federal government will soon launch “Operation Safeguard Our Roads” to combat road misuse and destruction.

    He stressed that the government will no longer tolerate the misuse of road infrastructure, noting that significant taxpayer funds are invested in these projects.

    “We will not hesitate to penalize any vehicle owner who causes damage to the road. The owner will be made to pay and penalized accordingly,” the Minister stated.

    “We can afford to fold our arms and see roads constructed with tax payers money been destroyed after committing huge sums of money  “, he stressed warning road vehicle owners to desist of face the law as appropriate.

    He explained that the drive was aimed at ensuring the provision of qualitative road  infrastructure for smooth transportation towards enhancing businesses, trades and for the general socio-economic prosperity of the country.

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    He stated that the initiative was in line with  visionary and purposeful commitment of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to repositioning the country.

    “We need the unflinching support and cooperation of all to actualise the agenda for the benefit of the Nigerian citizens”, urging states and LGs as well Nigerians to dispassionately report destructive actions by vehicle owners yo the nearest appropriate authority.

    The minister launched a solar-powered street lights project executed by FERMA at Sultan Abubakar International Airport and the surrounding roads.

    The Minister highlighted that the project would be life-saving and significantly improve security surveillance, particularly in areas that were previously considered danger zones, especially at night.

    Dr. Emeka Agbasi, Managing Director of FERMA, explained that the initiative was part of efforts to enhance road conditions for public safety, aligning with FERMA’s mandate.

    He also praised the Minister for his dedication to advancing President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, positioning road infrastructure as a key driver for national progress.

  • HAULMACE 2024: Experts to discuss transition to CNG vehicles

    HAULMACE 2024: Experts to discuss transition to CNG vehicles

    The transition to CNG vehicles is not just an economic necessity but also an environmental imperative. 

    With high inflation driving up the cost of transportation, CNG offers a cleaner, more affordable alternative to traditional fuels. 

    As Nigeria transitions toward a greener energy landscape, compressed natural gas (CNG) is emerging as a game-changer. 

    However, the journey towards sustainable logistics is fraught with challenges. More than ever before, there is need to explore strategies for adopting CNG technologies to achieve cost reduction, sustainability, and innovation in the haulage and logistics sector. 

    This will be the major focus at the Haulage and Logistics Magazine Annual Conference and Exhibition (HAULMACE 2024) scheduled to hold on December 18, 2024 at The Stable Event Centre, Surulere, Lagos, time is 10 am. 

    The theme of the event is Embracing the Gas Initiative in the Haulage and Logistics Industry: Sustainability and Innovation, this year’s conference promises to be a insightful event aimed at shaping the future of the haulage and logistics sector in Nigeria. 

    Haulage and Logistics Magazine Annual Conference and Exhibition (HAULMACE) is the biggest gathering of decision makers in the haulage and logistics industry in Nigeria. 

    HAULMACE is an annual event that started in year 2015.  

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    The event is organized by Haulage and Logistics Magazine. 

    The aim of the annual event is to provide a platform for advocacy and addressing of pressing issues affecting the growth and development of the industry.

    The convener of HAULMACE, Mr. Alfred Okugbeni, explained that the theme of this year’s conference was arrived at after several engagements with major stakeholders in the haulage and logistics industry and the need to discuss the benefits and roadmap of CNG in the haulage and logistics sector. 

    The conference aims to bring together top executives of haulage companies, logistics directors, directors of manufacturing companies, supply chain managers and all stakeholders in the dry and wet cargo transportation industry to share insights, and explore sustainable energy solutions. 

    The event will delve into the current trends and future prospects of energy use in logistics, showcasing successful case studies and innovative technologies.

    The keynote speaker at this year’s conference is Mr Osaze Aghatise, Logistics Director of Lafarge Africa Plc. Special guest speaker at the event is Michael O. Oluwagbemi, Programme Director/Chief Executive of the Presidential CNG Initiative. 

    Panelist for the panel discussion include: Engr Abdulmujeeb Masud, General Manager, Logistics and Fleet, Tetracore Energy Group Ltd, Mr Mohammad Dahiru, General Manager, Operations, NNPC Retail Ltd. 

    These industry experts will explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the gas initiative and discuss actionable strategies to drive sustainability and innovation in the sector.

  • Marine engineers, Naval architects hold annual conference, AGM in Port Harcourt

    Marine engineers, Naval architects hold annual conference, AGM in Port Harcourt

    The Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA) is set to hold its Annual Conference/AGM in Port Harcourt, Rivers State next week. 

    With the theme: “Advancing National Maritime Regulations for Shared Prosperity” the 2024 edition tagged MARSPER 2024 is the 13th in the series. 

    Topics, including Innovative Approaches to Maritime Safety Compliance, the Cabotage Act and The Role of Waivers In The Advancement Of The Nigerian Maritime Industry and Technological Advancements In Naval Architecture And Their Regulatory Impacts. 

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    Others are: Economic Growth Through Effective Maritime Financing And Financial Regulations as well as Collaborative Strategies For Maritime Industry Growth And Regulations will be treated. 

    The conference holds on Monday, 9th December 2024 at Heliconia Park Hotel, Eastern Bypass, Port Harcourt. 

    Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara will be the chief host while the Minister of Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola will be the Special guest of honour. 

    On Tuesday, Dec. 10, the AGM takes centre stage virtually, with a link that will be provided for participants. 

    A statement by Engr. Eferebo  I Sylvanus, the Chairman, 2024 Conference/AGM Planning Committee says, “Members are by this notice encouraged to kindly donate towards the actualization of MARSPER 2024

  • Akwa Ibom Rep member seeks decentralisation of Ports

    Akwa Ibom Rep member seeks decentralisation of Ports

    Member representing Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom Hon. Inemesit Clement Jimbo has called for decentralisation of seaports, saying that will go a long way to boost the economy of the country.

    He emphasised that concentration of the nation’s seaport in few geographical areas is capable of doing more harms than good to the economy of the country and people of other areas.

    Speaking  in his  National Assembly office in Abuja with reporters,  Hon Jimbo noted that the impact of non-concentration of Sea Port is glaring as it has negative consequences on our road and other infrastructures.

    According to him: “Decentralising our Port Authority is equally for the economic boom of this country. I have read and I have watched several documentations, documentaries and different analysis on the SeaPort in Lagos state, the congestion, the impacts on our roads and even on our economy. 

    “What many of our entrepreneurs and importers of goods and services into the country witness or pay as a price in terms of congestion of our seaports only calls for holistic decentralisation of our economy.”

    Jimbo said the need to have a seaport in Akwa Ibom state cannot be overemphasised, stating that from Akwa Ibom state, goods can be easily evacuated to Abia state and northern parts of the country.

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    He explained: “But that is not to say the current state of the seaports or the port authority in Calabar, Cross River state and the road linking the communities from Cross River state to the other states of Nigeria should not be fixed. 

    “That is how in my own estimation, Nigeria can be holistically developed simultaneously without having to unnecessarily populate a state to the detriment of other states.

    “If in Akwa Ibom state, we have a seaport that will serve as a hub for whatever consumable that should be delivered to the So: uth South and South East, it will be better. If you look at the seaport in Calabar, Cross River state, it is not 100 percent operational to full capacity, and if you look at the road linking Cross River state to the Northern states in Nigeria, it is completely impassable. For example, the Calabar- Odupkani road that links to Akwa Ibom state, it takes days for you to access those communities. “

  • NURTW: Appeal Court did not nullify MC Oluomo’s election

    NURTW: Appeal Court did not nullify MC Oluomo’s election

    Contrary to the earlier reports, the Southwest Coordinator of Elders’ Forum of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Moshood Ajao, has said that Appeal Court did not nullify the election of Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya (aka MC Oluomo) as the union’s national president.

    Ajao, in a statement, explained that Alhaji Akinsanya was elected at the Zonal Delegates Conference of NURTW held in Osogbo on November 9, 2024, and was never a party to any court proceedings.

    According to him, Akinsanya neither filed nor was part of the appeal that was described as devoid of merit.

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    He explained that the Appeal Court judgment was delivered in Abuja on November 8, 2024, while the Zonal Delegates Conference held in Osogbo was conducted on November 9, 2024.

    Ajao said members of the NURTW, particularly delegates at the conference, and Alhaji Akinsanya, were not aware of any judgment when the election was conducted.

    He said Akinsanya was neither a petitioner nor a defendant in the said case.

    Ajao explained that the decision to elect Akinsanya as President of the NURTW was to achieve peace in the union as he was not a party to any litigation and crisis of leadership in the NURTW.