Mandate Secretary for Transportation, Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, Barrister Elechi Chinedum, has stated that transporters are indispensable in national development.
Chinedum, a former Commissioner for Transport in Abia State, hailed the role transporters play in the economy during the flag-off of a week-long Drivers’ Care Initiative across motor parks in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja.
The initiative, organized by Transporters for Tinubu 2027, provides free eye tests, drug abuse sensitization, and access to soft loans through the Transporters Cooperative Society for transporters in the FCT
The flag-off ceremony, held at Jabi Park, was attended by members of transport unions such as Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, RTEAN, the National Association of Road Transport Owners, NARTO, and National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, as well as industry stakeholders.
Chinedum, who declared the initiative open, stressed the vital role transporters play in the nation’s economy.
“Transportation is the most important part of our lives. Without it, how will people move? How will goods get from Abia to Abuja?” Chinedum said.
He assured the transporters of the government’s commitment to partnership and urged them to utilize the free services on offer.
The FCTA mandate secretary highlighted ongoing infrastructure developments in the transportation sector under the current administration, including the construction of modern bus terminals in Mabushi, Kugbo, and the Central Area.
Chinedum also advised drivers to prioritize their health by undergoing eye tests and avoiding substance abuse.
Speaking at the event, Prince Segun Obayendo, National Coordinator of Transporters for Tinubu 2027, shared personal experiences from his days as a cab driver.
Obayendo said, “I was beaten by police, by VIO, by FRSC. I know what you go through. I am one of you.”
He called for the modernization of motor parks and urged transporters to actively engage with government to demand better facilities.
“Government cannot give what you don’t ask for. Support them, then make your demands. This is just the beginning,” Obayendo added.
In the same vein, FCT NURTW Chairman, Prince Dauda Abdulakadir, expressed gratitude to the organizers for the initiative.
“The more we contribute, the more we benefit. 2027 is close. Let us do what will help our future,” he said while acknowledging the support of the government, including the provision of CNG buses.
A transport sector stakeholder, Mr. Femi Aderemi, further emphasized the importance of transporters. “Your work is this country’s economic lifeline. We are here to appreciate you, to support your health, and to ensure you have a seat at the table when transport policies are made,” he said.
Transporters indispensable in national development – FCTA Mandate Secretary
