After assessing several proposals and recommendations, Nigeria is settling for a template on a long-term solution to road and rail insecurity nationwide.
This initiative will include community involvement and relevant security agencies deploying modern technology and a rapid response approach.
Transportation Minister, Engr Muazu Jaji Sambo gave the indication in New York, United States of America, during a courtesy visit to the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Nigeria’s Mrs Amina J. Mohammed.
The Honourable Minister is a lead speaker on financing Nigeria Power and Transport infrastructure at the Nigerian International Economic Partnership forum at St. Regis Hotel, New York, USA, slated for September 22, 2022. President Muhammadu Buhari is the Keynote speaker.
On the fate of the remaining Abuja-Kaduna train terror hostages he said that his team is working tirelessly with relevant agencies to ensure their release.
The Honourable Minister and Deputy Secretary General shared perspectives on how communities and traditional rulers can be part of arrangements to secure road and rail infrastructure passing through their domain.
Since the security of a nation lies in its community, they reasoned, if communal involvement, technology and rapid response are involved, insecurity can be nipped in the bud to a large extent. Mrs Amina Mohammed observed that the Honourable Minister’s initiative will go a long way in dealing with the challenge of insecurity.
She commended the infrastructural development programme of the Buhari administration even as people will not see progress when they are living in insecurity.
Mrs Mohammed congratulated Engr Sambo on his appointment as Transportation Minister.
The nation, she noted, looks forward to the story the Minister would tell at the end of the administration.
In his response, the Honourable Minister said he hit the ground running from day one. Part of his reasons for the courtesy visit to Mrs Mohammed is to solicit for assistance and opportunities for the Federal Ministry of Transportation.
He commended her for being a huge pride to Nigerians back home.
“The task is not easy, but honestly, you are doing us proud indeed. We pray for strength, resilience and wisdom as you discharge your duties,” the Honourable Minister said.