Transportation

Logistic Problem Hindering Supply of Petroleum Products Resolved- Reps

By Web News 386

By Tanimu Salihu [Abuja]

The House of Representatives Committees on Petroleum Resources Midstream and Downstream has assured Nigerians that the Logistic Problem hindering adequate supply of Petroleum Products which has resulted to long queues in filling stations across the country has been resolved.

The Chairman of the Committees, Mr. Ikenga Ogochinyere and Mr. Henry Okojie at a joint news briefing in Abuja said the Committees sat with relevant stakeholders to address the logistic issue.

The House Committee Chairman on Petroleum Resources Downstream Mr. Ikenga Ogochinyere, called on security agencies to clampdown on individuals and group sabotaging the adequate supply of Petroleum products.

Mr. Ogochinyere explained that the actions of some middle men in the Petroleum industry contributed largely to the disruption of adequate supply of the products which has subjected many Nigerians to untold hardship.

The Chairman House Committee on Petroleum Resources Downstream Mr. Henry Okojie, encouraged the citizens not to be worried as adequate supply of the Products are currently ongoing.

The Committees emphasized that an investigation by the committees revealed that there is availability of Petroleum products and also appealed to Nigerians not to engage in panic buying as the long queues have started disappearing.

Transportation

Long Queues, Price Hike as Fuel Scarcity Bites Harder

By Web News 426

By Adebukola Aluko/Titilayo Kupoliyi

Long queues of commercial and private vehicles, as well as motorcycles and tricycles which started in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital on Monday, persist.

A visit by Radio Nigeria to some filling stations at Ring Road, Oke-Ado, Dugbe and Mokola axis revealed that most of the filling stations were not open for business.

Some motorists spent their nights at the filling stations with no hope of getting the fuel, as the commodity was yet to be dispensed as at the time of filing this report.

The situation was the same at some filling stations in Bodija, Customs, Idi ape, Ashi , Basorun and Akobo axis of Ibadan Metropolis.

Also, Long queues existed at AP and Bovas filling Station in Bodija, and at Olarem filling station in Basorun.

It was observed that most filling stations were under lock and key, with people seeking to buy fuel, left helplessly wandering around, while the very few filling stations operating, sold between 950naira and 1200naira.

The motorists lamented that the hardship posed by scarcity of fuel was becoming unbearable, and appealed to the government and relevant agencies to make the commodity available and affordable to the people.

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Transportation

Navy Rescues Passengers onboard Capsized Boat

By Web News 338

Personnel of the Nigerian Navy have rescued over 250 passengers onboard a capsized boat in Rivers State.

The three-deck wooden boat was said to have departed from a local market in the Sangana area of Bayelsa State around 10 pm on April 28, 2024.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Navy’s Director of Information, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, said the boat was approaching Rivers State when it encountered stormy waters and collided with a rock.

The statement read, “The Nigerian Navy personnel of Naval Security Station 023 deployed along Cawthorne Channel in Rivers State rescued over 250 passengers who were onboard a capsized passenger boat at about 10 pm local time on 28 April 2024.

“The ill-fated boat, MV PRECIOUS EMMANUEL cast off from a local market in Sangana area of Bayelsa State and was making way to Rivers State when it encountered stormy waters and hit a wreck which damaged its hull causing it to capsize.”

Adams-Aliu noted that the boat was overloaded, lacked any life-saving equipment onboard, and none of its passengers were wearing life jackets

He said, “Notably, the locally made, three-deck wooden vessel popularly known as “Large Cotonou Boat” was overborne, had no lifesaving equipment onboard and none of its passengers wore a lifejacket. ”

He noted that no lives were lost in the incident due to the prompt response of its personnel.

“It was the vigilant eyes and professional response of NN personnel who swiftly undertook a rescue mission that ensured no life was lost.

“This rescue effort is in line with the Strategic Directive of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla which states that “the strategic end state of NN operations is a safe and secure maritime environment in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea,” the statement added.

He encouraged maritime operators to consistently ensure that their boats are equipped with life-saving equipment.

Adams-Aliu said, “Additionally, the NN wishes to reiterate the importance of lifejackets, life buoys and other life-saving equipment to local maritime operators. Provision and proper utilisation of such equipment are imperative to the safety of lives at sea.”

Lately, there have been too many boat mishaps recorded in the country.

Recently, popular actor Pope Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope and three others died after their boat capsized in Delta State.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Transportation

Two die in Osun Road Accident

By Web News 556

By Mojisola Oladele

Two people have been reportedly killed in an accident which occurred opposite the Mobil filling station, Ogo Oluwa area of Osogbo.

The accident involved a Toyota Rav4 Jeep with Reg. No. Abuja kuj 417 DH driven by one Dauda Tewogbade and a Bajaj Motorcycle with Reg No. Osun sub 708 UH , whose identity was yet unknown,as at Press time.

The accident occurred when the driver of the jeep was coming from Olaiya area heading towards Abere, on getting to opposite mobile filling station hit the motorcyclist who was allegedly riding against traffic rules.

Confirming the incident , the Police Public Relations Officer, Osun State Command, SP Yemisi Opalola, said the rider of the motorcycle and his passenger died on the spot. 

SP Opalola explained that the driver of Rav4 jeep and his friend who sustained injuries had been rushed to Uniosun Teaching Hospital Osogbo for treatment.

 She added that the corpses of the deceased had been deposited at the same hospital morgue for autopsy investigation.

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Transportation

Two Dead, Thirteen Injured on Sagamu- Ijebu-Ode Road Mishap

By Web News 777

By Adebola Ajayi 

Two persons have been reported dead while thirteen others sustained injuries in an accident on the Sagamu- Ijebu-Ode section of the Expressway after Area J3 junction.

The Spokesperson, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Ogun State Command, Mrs Florence Okpe made this known in a statement in Abeokuta.

The statement indicated that the accident involved a Toyota bus marked GUE 59 ZY and a truck with registration number BGT 94 LG.

The statement showed that the suspected cause of the crash was excessive speed, as the bus driver rammed into the stationary Truck parked by the roadside.

It said that the injured victims were taken to a private Hospital in Area J4 while the deceased were deposited at the Ijebu-Ode General Hospital Morgue.

According to the statement, the Sector Commander, Mr Anthony Uga cautioned motorists against wrong parking of vehicles on the highway, stating that if there was any breakdown, they should display caution signs to alert other road users.

Mr Uga also advised motorists to shun speed and always drive carefully.

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Transportation

Adeleke Orders Rehabilitation of Ibodi-Ilesa Road

By Web News 449

By Folake Oye

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has directed the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to rehabilitate and widen the Ibodi-Ilesa road to forestall incessant accidents that have claimed lives in recent times.

A statement by his Spokesman, Mallam Olawale Rasheed in Osogbo said the governor approved the expansion of the road while receiving the report from a committee set up after the unfortunate accident that claimed the life of a female staff of the University of Ilesa, Osun state

The governor also directed the Commissioner for Transportation to consider the creation of a trailer park in the area to stop multiple parking trailers in the area.

While condoling with the family of the deceased, Senator Adeleke endorsed the compensation package already agreed between the owner of the truck and the family of the late University of Ilesa staff, noting that no amount of monetary compensation could replace the loss of a precious life

Senator Adeleke, who also approved the creation of regulations to govern trucking activities along the said road, warned companies operating in the state to be mindful of the safety and security of their host communities.

The Chairman of the committee, Mr Sesan Oyedele, said members of the committee had visited the management of the University, the affected company and the grieving family of the deceased to commiserate and negotiate with them. 

It would be recalled that a female staff member of the University of Ilesa died in a ghastly accident on the 3rd of April, 2024 when a container filled with cashew nuts being conveyed by a truck fell on her car.

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Transportation

Lone Accident on Lagos-Ibadan Express Leaves Three Dead

By Web News 668

By Olusegun Folarin 

Three persons have been presumed dead while two people sustained varying degrees of injuries in a line crash on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway around Fidiwo Bridge.

The lone accident involved a Toyota Jeep marked BDG213BJ.

The Public Education Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Ogun Sector Command, Mrs Florence Okpe who confirmed the crash in a statement in Abeokuta said that out of the 5 persons involved 2 got injured while the remaining 03 were killed from the lone crash.

She attributed the cause of the lone crash to Tyre bust speed which led to loss of control and the vehicle crash under the bridge

Mrs Okpe pointed out that the injured victims were taken to a private Hospital, Ogere while the corpses were also deposited at a private Morgue in  Ipara.

She advised motorists to drive within the stipulated speed limit and always go on a routine check to detect any fault on a vehicle. 

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Transportation

Truck Rams into Bus Leaving Two Dead on Ota-Idiroko Road

By Web News 449

By Olusegun Folarin 

Two persons have reportedly died while two people sustained injuries in a crash that occurred at Castinjo-Ola Bus Stop along Ota-Idiroko Road.

The accident which occurred at twelve minutes to seven this morning involved a truck with no registration number and a bus marked LND 224 GF.

Witnesses claimed that the Truck with no number plate was driving inbound Idiroko from Ota when the driver, due to drunk driving and excessive speed, lost control and rammed into the bus driving in the opposite direction from Idiroko to Ota.

They noted that the driver of the bus and the motor boy died on the spot due to the impact of the collision while the drunk driver of the truck and his motor boy ran away.

Confirming the incident, the Spokesperson for the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps, Mr Babatunde Akinbiyi said the presumed dead had been deposited to General Hospital Ifo.

Mr Akinbiyi while commiserating with the families of the deceased, reminded motorists of the need to desist from drunk driving and excessive speed in view of its attendant consequences.

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Transportation

Six Feared Dead, 21 Injured in Lagos-Ibadan Road Mishap

By Web News 544

By Olusegun Folarin 

Six people have been presumed dead while 21 persons sustained varying degrees of injuries while 26 people escaped unhurt in a separate accident that occurred in different locations in Ogun State.

The first crash which occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway around the FIDIWO area of the state involved a Toyota bus marked GBJ915XA Toyot and a golf car with no registration number but Golf car. 

The second lone accident which occurred on Ore- Ijebu-ode section of the expressway after Ajede junction involved a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number RBC213XT.

The Public Education Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Mrs Florence Okpe said the third accident occurred on Ore-Ijebu-ode expressway after Ajebamidele bridge.

Mrs Okpe explained that the crash involved IVECO Truck with registration number TRE265XB Luxury bus with no number on it.

She said out of the 29 people involved in the third crash 2 persons were injured and 1 death while 26 people were unhurt in the accident 

According to the Mrs Okpe, the suspected cause of the crash were wrongful overtaking, Speed and the vehicle loss  control and crash . 

Mrs Okpe said the injured victims were taken to Private health facilities in Ogere and ijebu while the corpses were deposited at a private MORGUE in IPARA

and General Hospital Ijebu-ode while the corpses were deposited at the General Hospital morgue.

She said the Sector Commander, Mr ANTHONY UGA advised motorists to drive cautiously and have enough rest to avoid fatigue. 

He  also sympathize with the family of the crash victims . 

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Transportation

Adeleke Orders Investigation into Cashew Container Tragedy

By Web News 889

By Funmi Ojo, Folake Oye

Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed shock and sadness over the tragic death of a female staff of the University of Ilesa.

Reacting to the unfortunate incident in a statement by his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Governor charged all relevant government agencies to follow up on the root cause of the accident and ensure that those responsible were brought to book.

Governor Adeleke, who was briefed about the development, said authorities must find the owner of the truck, the circumstances of the accident and the search and rescue efforts after the accident.

The Governor further directed his Commissioner for Transportation to act on the matter including immediate visitation to the scene of the accident, the University of Ilesa, the family of the deceased as well as new regulations on the use of the narrow roads by heavy-duty trucks.

While commiserating with the management of the University of Ilesa and the family of the deceased, Governor Adeleke assured them that anyone found culpable for the accident would be brought to justice.

On Wednesday, a staff of the University of Ilesa, Osun State, Mrs Fanimo Ogunmokun was crushed to death after a cashew container fell on her car. 

According to the report, the incident, occurred on Campus Road in the afternoon when the deceased was coming from work in her Toyota Camry with number plate LSD 584 GD

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Kehinde Adeleke said the truck loaded with cashews was heading towards Osu lost control and fell over the Mrs Ogunmokun’s car, which was heading towards Ilesa metropolis

Mr Adeleke said the deceased, who would have retired this month, was trapped under the container for hours as efforts of passers-by to rescue her proved abortive because of the weight of the truck.

He added that the truck, which belongs to an agro-industry in Ilesa, was later lifted to recover the body of Mrs Fanimokun.

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Transportation

Ododo Mourns Obajana Accident Victims

By Web News 551

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, has commiserated with the families of the Obajana accident victims.

The accident, which occurred on Sunday night, claimed the lives of 13 bus passengers and left two others injured.

It was reported that the Federal Road Safety Corps, on Monday, said 13 persons died while 21 were injured in separate auto crashes in Kogi and Benue states.

The Kogi FRSC Sector Commander, Samuel Oyedeji, informed journalists in Lokoja, the state capital, that the accident in Kogi occurred around 7.30 pm on Sunday.

Oyedeji added that the accident, involving a commercial Sharon bus and an articulated cement truck, took place near Obajana Market on the Obajana-Lokoja Road in the Lokoja Local Government Area of the state.

Ododo, who received a report of the accident upon his return to Lokoja on Monday, commiserated with the families of the victims and promised that the state government would not abandon them in their moment of grief.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, and made available to newsmen in Lokoja on Tuesday, Ododo said he was disturbed by the accident which occurred when an articulated truck rammed into a passenger bus around the Obajana market late Sunday night and resulted in an inferno.

While commiserating with the families of the victims, Ododo said, “I am disturbed that this accident resulted in the loss of lives and damage to property in the area.

“I sympathise with the families of those who lost their lives and the survivors, and I promise that we shall not abandon them in their moment of grief.”

He commended emergency management services in the state for rising to the occasion and dealing with the accident’s aftermath.

The governor called on the people to avoid night travel at all times.

“Let me also commend the Federal Road Safety Commission and other agencies for their quick response, but again I want to urge Nigerians to avoid night travels and for transporters in the state to preserve passenger manifest at bus terminals to enable easy identification when there are situations like this,” the governor said.

Punch/Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Transportation

Commissioner Wades into Ogun NURTW, OGSPAM Dispute

By Web News 918

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Ogun State government says it will strategically review and stabilize the informal transport sector to ensure that the growth and security agenda of the present administration is not altered.

Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Olugbenga Dairo stated this while reacting to the issue between the National Union of Road Transport Workers NURTW and the Ogun State Park Management Board, OGSPAM.

Mr Dairo, who noted that the state government was determined to stabilise and resolve the issue amicably, said efforts were made by officials of the state and other stakeholders towards restoring peaceful transport activities across the state.

Mr Dairo, who noted that the government, based on its observations, would set in motion the needed steps to stabilise the system, apologized to the people of the state for any inconveniences the crisis might have caused.

He urged the unions’ leadership to pursue peace in the discharge of their duties.

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Transportation

Jigawa Accident Claims 3 lives

By Web News 371

The Jigawa State Police Command has confirmed the death of three students in an accident along the Jahun/Kiyawa Road in the state.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Lawan Shiisu, confirmed the accident in a statement issued to newsmen on Sunday.

He said the accident occurred on March 15, 2024, adding that the crash “involved a Sharon Galaxy vehicle and was heading to Gwaram when the incident happened.”

The state police PRO added that the vehicle was “driven by one Rabi’u Abdullahi, 50, of Babaldo town in Gwaram Local Government Area of the state.”

He explained that the vehicle, which was carrying students from Government Girls Secondary School, Kaugama, on vacation to Gwaram, overturned after a tyre burst at the Kadirawa Village.

He noted that while eight students were treated and discharged at Jahun General Hospital, the driver and six others were referred to the Federal Medical Centre in Birnin Kudu for further treatment.

The police PRO added that preliminary investigation suggested that overloading and worn-out tyres contributed to the accident.

He stated that the corpses of the three deceased students were released to the Education Secretary of Gwaram LGA on behalf of their families.

In December 2023, the state police command said no fewer than 11 persons lost their lives in an auto crash at Kwanar Gujungu town in Taura LG of the state.

The police PRO confirmed this in a statement released in Dutse, the state capital.

He said the accident occurred at noon when two vehicles, a Honda saloon with registration number NSR 469 AE, and a Golf wagon with registration number AUY 292 XA had a head-on collision.

Punch/Adebukola Aluko

Transportation

Tinubu Commissions Lagos Red Line Rail Project

By Web News 582

President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the Lagos Red Line rail.

In his address at the event, President Tinubu shared insights into the transformative vision for Lagos.

“My team and I toiled day and night to craft and implement a developmental vision that will transform Lagos into the economic powerhouse of Africa and a respected mega city on the global stage. We are realising that dream”.

“It is not a crime to dream big. Just stay focused and stay on course, particularly, make development the central fulcrum, he said.”

Speaking at the launch, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasized that the project aimed not only to enhance transit but also to reshape the urban landscape, setting a new pace for development.

“The LMRT project is a beacon of progress, illuminating the path to a future where our city moves smoother, faster, and more efficiently,” he explained.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, when fully operational, the Lagos Red Line Mass Transit rail system will convey about 500,000 passengers daily.

“The LRMT Red Line rail system, the first phase of which we project will move more than 500,000 passengers daily, stretches over a distance of 27 kilometres from Agbado to Oyingbo, with eight stations at Agbado, Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushin, Yaba, and terminates at Oyingbo,” Sanwo-Olu explained.

The governor noted that the LMRT Red Line “isn’t just about improving our city’s mobility; it’s about reshaping our urban landscape and setting a new pace for development.

 “By connecting critical points across Lagos, we’re opening doors to opportunities, growth, and a sustainable future.”

Among the distinguished guests at the commissioning were Governors Usman Ododo (Kogi), Abiodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), former Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, and other notable dignitaries.

Here are eight facts to know about the Lagos Mass Transit train:

* The first phase of the LRMT project is expected to facilitate 37 trips daily and move more than 500,000 passengers daily.

* The rail stretches over a distance of 27 kilometres.

* There are eight stations from Agbado in Ogun State to Lagos State – Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushin, and Yaba, before terminating at Oyingbo.

* 10 vehicular overpasses and pedestrian bridges, separating train traffic from vehicular and pedestrian flows have been constructed. This will help to ensure the smooth operation of the rail line and safety for commuters.

* The LMRT project is headed by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, under the state’s Ministry of Transportation.

* The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion, minimise road accidents, and improve commuter safety within Lagos.

* The Red Line will utilise a diesel-powered system known as Diesel Multiple Unit which employs on-board diesel engines to propel multiple-unit trains.

* The Red Line project is a substantial investment in Lagos’ urban transportation infrastructure. Initial estimates pegged the cost at $135 million under the Greater Lagos Urban Transportation Project, managed by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA).

The Punch/Business Day/Maxwell Oyekunle

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Transportation

New PMS Executives Emerge in Oyo

By Web News 1128

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Government has officially inaugurated the new executive members of the Park Management System (PMS) eight months after the appointment of the former secretary of the  PMS, Mr Tomiwa Omolewa, as its new Chairman and  Mr Kasali Lawal as secretary in the State.

The state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr  Segun Olayiwola at the swearing-in ceremony held at the House of Chiefs, secretariat, Ibadan, warned the newly inaugurated executive members that the state government would hold them responsible for any act that was capable of jeopardizing the peace and progress of the state. 

Mr Olayiwola stated cy that the State will not condone any unwholesome acts, drinking of illegal substances and other nefarious activities in the various parks.

His words “May I seize this opportunity to advise that the Oyo State Government as your employer will forthwith hold you responsible for any act inimical to the peace and progress of Oyo State. 

“The effort of the government is intended to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our Park Managers in the discharge of their duties at the various parks

“The implementation of the new management system is a pointer to the fact that the present administration brings to bear its all-round experience in the area of governance. 

” It is noteworthy to observe that our parks serve as vital space for recreation, relaxation and community gathering, hence the need to hold accountable the managers of the various parks across the nooks and crannies of the State and to streamline park operations.

” Let me state categorically that the State will not condone any unwholesome acts, drinking of illegal substances and other nefarious activities in the various parks.

” At this juncture, it is pertinent to note that the administration of oaths being administered today by the State Government is meant to provide sanity to the system and to inculcate the culture of accountability in our various parks.

Mr Olayiwola, while affirming that all factions of the motor unions have been incorporated in the newly constituted executive,  however, urged any faction who felt omitted in the new arrangement to approach the office of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters for necessary action. 

In  a remark, the new  Chairman of the PMS in the state, Alhaji Tomiwa Omolewa expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde for the gesture, pledging to instil sanity in the transport sector of the state

Earlier in their seperate goodwill messages, the state Chairman of Associations of Local Government of Nigeria, ALGON, Oyo state chapter, Sikiru Sanda represented by Chairman, Ibadan Northwest local government Rahman  Adepoju and Oba Hamidu Ajibade both solicited the cooperation of members of the PMS with the state government towards ensuring peace and progress of the state.

The newly inaugurated members of the PMS are Alhaji Tomiwa Omolewa, ( Chairman), Alhaji Kasali Ajisafe ( Secretary), Alhaji Tajudeen Jimoh ( Vice Chairman) Alhaji Kamorudeen Idowu ( Treasurer) and Alhaji Adeniji Tirimisiyu( Financial Secretary) among other state executive members 

It would be recalled that the state governor, Seyi Makinde, hours after he was sworn in for a second term in office, ordered the dissolution of the disciplinary committee of the PMS led by Mr Mukaila Lamidi, popularly called Auxiliary.

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Transportation

FG Targets Modernisation of Transportation

By Web News 413

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Federal Government says it will modernise the country’s transportation system with emphasis on natural gas as a transition fuel among other renewable energy sources.

The Minister of Transportation, Alhaji Saidu Alkali made this known at the 18th National Council on Transportation held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with the theme” Embracing innovations and technologies for sustainable transportation, tackling the energy challenges”

The Minister, who maintained that the transport sector remained a major factor in the challenge of environmental pollution, stressed the need to adopt a multifaceted approach towards accelerating the adoption of a sustainable environmentally friendly transportation model.

Alhaji Alkali advocated greater partnerships between academia, industry operators and regulators to ensure that alternative energy transportation technologies were properly harnessed while commending the efforts of the Ogun State Government in promoting Multimodal transport through the e-mobility and Gas-mobility projects. 

Declaring the event open, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun represented by his Deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako- Oyedele said the choice of Ogun State as the host of the meeting was a unique opportunity to foster collaborations on innovative ideas, towards driving the required changes in the transportation sector.

Governor Abiodun also solicited the support of the National Council on transportation towards actualising the vision for seamless multimodal transportation in the State.

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Transportation

Abiodun Lauds FG’s Plan to Link Industrial Clusters by Rail 

By Web News 378

…says resuscitation of Ibadan-Abuja narrow gauge will boost trade, commerce 

By Abimbola Bamgbose 

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun said plans by the Federal Government to connect industrial zones in the country through rail lines, if successfully implemented, would reduce pressure on the nation’s highways  and prolong their lifespan.

The governor also noted that the resuscitation of the narrow gauge from Ibadan to Abuja, when completed, would allow investors to wheel cargo from Lagos to Kano State and improve trade and commerce.

Prince Abiodun stated this when he received the Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Ahmed Alkali and some commissioners for transportation across the country who were in the state for the 18th edition of the National Council on Transportation.

Governor Abiodun commended the minister for the bold steps he is taking to reposition the transportation sector of the country, noting that the plan by the Ministry of Transportation to resuscitate the Kaduna to Kano line would further open up the country for commerce.

“I am very glad about the laudable achievements under your watch, the initiatives that you’re championing, the intervention you have sought from the Chinese to resuscitate the Kaduna to Kano line so that you will now have the connection, all the way from Lagos, Ogun, Ibadan, Abuja, Kaduna and Kano.

“You admitted to me that you are thinking of how to connect our industrial zones so you can de-emphasis vehicular transportation whilst connecting the Badagry port to the rail line that will connect with the Lagos to Kano line, also thinking of a line that will go from Lekki port to Ijebu-Ode and connect to Kajola.

“This is indeed very laudable thinking. This is what you see when you put people who have the requisite experience and capacity in positions of authority, ” he said.

The governor added that his administration, upon realizing the importance of the transportation sector, quickly created a ministry that would see to the running of the sector in the state.

“We understood the importance of the Ministry of Transportation when I assumed office. We didn’t have that ministry in Ogun State. We had the Ministry of Works, and for some strange reason, my predecessor assumed that the commissioner for works could carry out the responsibilities of the commissioner of transportation.

“We are a testimonial for the transportation sector. We value that sector, we’ve taken transportation very seriously,” he said.

Abiodun said his administration is deeply committed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of renewed hope, adding that the state under his watch would continue to put the people first.

Earlier in his remarks, Senator Alkali noted that the National Council on Transportation would address the National Transportation Policy, which does not exist at the moment.

He said that the ministry has submitted a draft recommendation for stakeholders to make their input for onward presentation and deliberation by the Federal Executive Council.

Senator Alkali disclosed that the Federal Government would soon commence the railway project from Ibadan to Abuja and Kaduna to Kano, adding that the ministry has started the evacuation of about 90 containers daily at the APMT terminal to Ibadan.

According to him, the ministry would start freighting of goods by the end of the present quarter from the APMT terminal to Kano State.

He said that the ministry is currently in high-level discussions with foreign investors to see how the transportation sector can be fixed.

“In December last year, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the Vice President to lead a delegation to attend a conference in Beijing.

“The Vice President was privileged to hold a bilateral discussion with the Chinese President. Among the issues raised was in respect of our railway modernization project.

“The project was segmented initially. From Lagos to Ibadan was completed and put into use, and Abuja to Kaduna, Warri to Itakpe. We are looking at the possibility of continuing the project from Ibadan to Abuja and from Kaduna to Kano,” he said.

Alkali acknowledged Governor 

Abiodun for the great work he has started in the state, saying that he has written his name in gold.

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Transportation

Makinde, Mba Inaugurate Challenge-Elewe-Elebu-Apata Road

By Web News 485

By Iyabo Adebisi/Olaolu Fawole

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde and his Enugu State counterpart, Peter Mba have officially inaugurated a 12.5km Challenge- Odo Ona-Elewe-Elebu-Apata dualized road project.

Speaking at the inauguration held at the Owode Housing Estate Junction along Ibadan-Abeokuta Road, Ibadan  Governor Makinde reiterated the commitment of his administration towards improving the well-being of the people irrespective of economic challenges facing the nation.

Governor Makinde also disclosed that the ongoing wage award being received by workers in the state would be extended by another six months to help the workers navigate through the current economic realities

On the report of PDP Governors owing workers in their states, Governor Makinde, who reiterated the commitment of his administration to workers’ and pensioners’ welfare explained that civil servants have continued to collect their salary on or before 25 of every month t since 2019.

Governor Makinde named the road after Theophilus Akinyele Way in recognition of the contribution of the late Theophilus Akinyele, former  Head of Service of Oyo state and Special Adviser to the President on Budget Affairs from 1979-1983.

In a remark, the Governor of Enugu state, Peter Mba while describing Seyi Makinde as a people-friendly governor said the road was a testament to his passion for developing the state.

Earlier, the state Commissioner for Works, Professor Daud Sangodoyin said that the 12.5km road project started in 2008 but was neglected by successive governments before Governor Seyi Makinde re-awarded it.

Also, the federal Controller of Works, Oyo State, Mrs Moronmubo Olarerin commended Governor Makinde for his aggressive infrastructural development particularly road construction across the state whether state or federal road.

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Transportation

Ogun Govt. Lifts Ban on NURTW

By Web News 822

By Olusegun Folarin

Ogun State government has lifted the ban on the operations of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, in the State.

The State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Gbenga Dairo who conveyed the government’s directives to the National Headquarters of the Union said the move was aimed at promoting the enabling environment for peace and growth in the transport sector. 

Mr Dairo told a delegation of the union led to his office in Abeokuta by the Acting National President of the NURTW, Alhaji Aliyu Issa – Ọrẹ that the lifting of suspension of NURTW activities in the state was premised on expectations that the union would comply with the specified terms and conditions of peaceful conduct. 

“We are enjoining them all to continue working closely with the Ministry of Transport and the security agencies to ensure peace and security across our state. 

This collaboration aligns with his excellency’s reform agenda in the transport sector, ensuring the people of Ogun State benefit from the dividends of democracy,” Dairo stated.

Earlier while addressing a large gathering of members at the Asero, Abeokuta Council Secretariat of the NURTW, the Acting National President of the union, Alhaji Issa – Ore said the union had also assured the government of its commitment to maintaining the peace and respecting the rules of engagement. 

The Acting National President advised them to justify the confidence reposed in the union by the government and work in harmony, avoiding rancour or anything capable of hindering the public peace while discharging their duties in line with the provisions of the union’s constitution. 

Alhaji Issa Ore told the teeming members that “we have an obligation to keep to the terms of our undertaken with the government and as responsible citizens bound by the union’s constitution and the laws of the land to ensure a functional, accountable and professional union that maintains the peace in all our activities”. 

Unveiling the list of the interim leaders to run the affairs of the Council, pending the election of substantive executives, the Acting National General Secretary of the Union, Comrade Kayode Agbeyangi said the national Secretariat, after due consultations with the relevant stakeholders had approved a 27 – member caretaker committee for the state. 

“The committee is saddled with the responsibility of running the affairs of the Council for in the interim, hence only four offices would be created among the members for the purposes of accountability, these are the Trustee, Treasurer, Deputy Chairman and Caretaker Chairman,” Agbeyangi said. 

He charged the new leaders to run an inclusive administration for the restoration of NURTW operations and ensure proper management of both the government and union’s revenue as well as the welfare of all members in the state.

In his acceptance speech, the new Caretaker Chairman, Alhaji Ismail a Adewale, popularly called Yarọ expressed appreciation to the government of Governor Dapo Abiodun and national leaders of the union for giving members the opportunity to return to their duty posts with the resumption of NURTW activities across the state. 

He promised to extend the olive branch to all stakeholders and work with members for the continuous progress of the union.

Yaro affirmed, “I promise the Governor and the entire Ogun State that peace will reign during my tenure. I will work hand-in-hand with security and the Ministry of Transportation, with the primary objective of serving the interests of my members.”

Other National leaders at the event, included the National Treasurer, Alhaji Bello Maiduganari, the Head of the Women Affairs Unit, Mrs Asabe Dogo and the Zonal Secretary, Comrade Adesina Olayioye.

Transportation

Ibadan Plane Mishap: NSIB Begins Investigation

By Web News 669

By Mosope Kehinde

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, NSIB, has commenced investigation into the incident where a private plane skidded off the runway at the Ladoke Akintola Airport, Alakia, Ibadan on Friday.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NSIB, Mrs Olawumi Oladeji.
Mrs Oladeji said the aircraft, with 12 passengers and three crew members on board was en-route Ibadan from Abuja and it overshot the runaway on final approach to landing at Runway 22, Ibadan Airport.

She said the bureau will appreciate that the general public and press respect the privacy of the people involved and should not assume the cause of the serious incident until a formal report is released.

Mrs Oladeji solicited the assistance of members of the public, noting that the bureau was ready to receiving any video clip, relevant evidence, or information that people may have, that can assist it with the investigation.

“The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has been notified and commenced investigation into an incident involving a Challenger 601-3R aircraft with nationality and registration mark N580KR operated by Mattini Air which occurred at about 1055am (Local Time) on 26th January, 2024.”

“The aircraft, with 12 passengers and three crew members onboard was en-route Ibadan from Abuja”.

“The aircraft, on final approach to landing Runway 22, Ibadan Airport overshot the runway”.

“There was no fatality, as all passengers and crew were safely evacuated”.

“The NSIB has deployed a Go Team to investigate the incident. As the investigating agency, NSIB needs and hereby solicits for your assistance. We want the public to know that we would be amenable to receiving any video clip, relevant evidence, or information any members of the public may have of the serious incident; that can assist us with this investigation“.

“The bureau will appreciate that the general public and press respect the privacy of the people involved and NOT assume the cause of the serious incident until formal report is released”.

Mrs Oladeji added that the Bureau will release the preliminary report as soon as possible.

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Transportation

Osogbo Multi-Vehicle Accident Claims Multiple Lives

By Web News 851

By Adenitan Akinola

No fewer than seven people today lost their lives in an accident that occurred in front of the popular WOCDIF Events Center, Ring Road, Osogbo, Osun State.

Radio Nigeria learnt that the fatal accident involved a commercial bus and tricycle, which got damaged beyond repair.

Preliminary information has it that three schoolchildren and the driver of the tricycle died on the spot while the other three persons passed away on arrival at the hospital.

It was gathered that security operatives, marketers and other road users around the area, joined in the rescue efforts.

Confirming the incident the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Osun Command, said occurred on the Osogbo-Ilobu highway in the early hours of Tuesday. 

The Sector Commander, Mr Henry Benamaisia, said the accident which occurred at about 9:10 a.m. involved a blue Mazda commercial bus and a tricycle having a number plate RLG 898 QE with a motorcycle with number plate SGB 630 DN. 

He said the accident occurred around the WORDIF Area close to Lameco Junction on the Ring Road by-pass claiming the lives of four persons on the spot. 

“Three passengers out of the four died at the hospital where they were rushed to. Although, eight persons were involved, which include four male adults with two female children and two male children”. 

“We only have one survival out of the eight persons involved in the accident”, Benamaisia said.  

According to him, the root cause of the accident was excessive speeding leading to a tyre burst and later loss of control by the commercial bus driver. 

“The vehicles and the motorcycle have been taken to Dugbe Police Station while the dead were taken to Osun State Teaching Hospital with the help of O’ Ambulance.” 

The sector commander commended the joint efforts of other security agencies in helping to maintain law and order during the gridlock.

Mr Benamaisia, however, advised motorists against disobedience to traffic regulations which could endanger their lives and those of passengers on board their vehicles.

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Transportation

Rescue Operation Ongoing as Kebbi-Bound Boat Capsizes

By Web News 273

Divers, on Monday, began a search for passengers of a boat that capsized in Niger State while travelling to Kebbi State.

It was learnt that the boat had over 100 passengers on board, among them traders conveying grains and sugarcane to a market in Kebbi State.

The Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, NSEMA, Salihu Garba, in a statement on Monday, said, “The Niger State Emergency Management Agency received a report of a boat mishap that occurred in the Borgu Local Government Area.

“The incident happened this afternoon, Monday 15th, January 2024, at about 2:05 pm. The boat took off from Dugga Mashaya in Dugga ward heading towards Wara market in Kebbi State with passengers estimated to be around a hundred in number, as well as goods, such as grains and

“As of the time of writing this interim report, no clear information about death and survivors was received. Meanwhile, search and rescue operations are ongoing by the local divers.”

Boats accidents are becoming recurrent in Niger State. On November 16, 2023, a boat accident in the Shiroro area of the state claimed 34 lives. Among the victims were 10 children.

NSEMA attributed the boat accident to water hyacinth and strong waves.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Transportation

Five Feared Dead, Many Injured in Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Crash

By Web News 535

By Olusegun Folarin

About five persons have been presumed dead while 8 people sustained varying degrees of injury in a crash that occurred on Lagos-Ibadan expressway around Fidiwo.

The crash which occurred at about two minutes to two O’clock in the afternoon involved a MAZDA BUS marked EKY582 YE MAZDA BUS and A Mercedes Benz Truck with no registration number on it.

The Public Education Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Ogun Sector Command, Mrs Florence Okpe, confirmed the incident in a statement in Abeokuta.

Mrs Okpe blamed the suspected causes of the fatal crash on Tyre bust, speed which led to loss of control on the part of the truck and crash with the bus while in motion.

She noted that the injured victims were taken to a private Hospital in Ogere and the corpses were deposited at the state General Hospital Isara.

Mrs Okpe pointed out that the sector commander, Mr Anthony Uga described the incident as unfortunate and advised motorists to pay more attention to their tyres and avoid the use of worn-out/expired Tyres.

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Transportation

Stop Encroaching into Recovered Road Setbacks, Ogun Warns Transport Unions

By Web News 486

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Ogun State Government has warned transport unions operating along the Lagos -Ibadan Expressway to stop encroaching into recovered road setbacks and converting them to illegal parks, especially around the Isheri and Kara axis of the road. 

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Alhaji Farook Akintunde gave the warning when he led the Ogun State Special Taskforce on Environmental Compliance and Enforcement to Isheri and Kara communities. 

Alhaji Akintunde who said the stakeholders had been adequately informed of the government’s plan to embark on a beautification project along the axis warned that any vehicle parked illegally on the roadsides would be impounded.

In reaction, the Chairman, the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Isheri- Olofin Branch, Alhaji Audu Dagwa who apologized on behalf of the members assured the state government of their cooperation and agreement that members operating illegal parks should be sanctioned.

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Transportation

Accident Claims Three on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

By Web News 630

By Omolara Adasofunjo 

A fatal  accident between IVECO trucks with registration number AAB 414 ZY and a Cabster, ZUR 601 XY at Kara bridge inbound on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway has claimed three lives

According to a release by the public relations officer, Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps, TRACE, Mr Babatunde Akinbiyi, the hoodlums, who had believed that the accident was caused by the truck, set it ablaze.

Mr Akinbiyi said the Iveco truck developed a mechanical fault on the road after colliding with another vehicle which drove against traffic, inbound Lagos on the Kara bridge.

He explained that while the driver and the motor boy were trying to sort out mechanical fault on the road, a Cabstar, loaded with watermelon which was at excessive speed, lost control and rammed into the Iveco truck from behind, killing all the 3 occupants in the Cabstar, including the driver.

According to him, some hoodlums from nowhere stormed the Kara bridge and set the Iveco truck ablaze because they believed the Iveco truck caused the accident.

He noted that it took the intervention of TRACE, POLICE and the Ogun State Fire Service before normalcy could be restored on the Kara bridge for incoming vehicles inbound Lagos at that hour.

The TRACE PRO said that all three commuters who lost their lives in the Cabstar had been taken away by their family members for burial and the accident vehicles were towed to Adigboluja Police Station Ojodu fir further investigation.