Nigerian Newsday

By Lawal Dogara, Kaduna

In an effort towards addressing transportation problem in Kaduna state, Governor Namadi Sambo flagged off the transport scheme of the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) penultimate week.

Speaking at the occasion to mark the first phase of the NLC transport services which was held at NLC secretariat in Kaduna, Governor Sambo explained that the programme was part of his 11-point agenda at making life more meaningful to the entire people of the state.

He said his administration was committed towards carrying out developmental programmes.

The governor who was represented by his deputy, Mr. Patrick Yakowa said the state government had already purchased 100 taxi cabs that would operate within Kaduna metropolis.

"Having been satisfied with the sincerity of purpose which the leadership of the Nigeria Labor Congress has exhibited towards the labour transport service scheme, the government has decided to grant the request of the congress by giving it a grant of N26 million for the project.

"Out of this amount N13 million has already been released for which I am made to understand, the congress expended on 10 minibuses which we are commissioning today. I am hereby directing the immediate release of the balance of N13 million to the congress to enable it purchase the remaining ten of the 10-seater minibuses", the governor stated.

He further noted that the scheme would go a long way in bringing transport fares in the state.

Governor Sambo also reiterated the determination of the state government to ensure adequate security of lives and property in the state, adding that his administration would equally provide employment opportunities for youths all over the state.

He however, advised the leadership of the congress to imbibe maintenance culture in order to sustain the life-span of the buses, adding that accountability and due process are the key operative factors of his administration.

Also speaking, the President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Alhaji Abdulwaheed Omar commended the harmonious working relationship between the governor and the labour in the state.

The NLC president stressed that without a good working relationship between the governor and labour, peace cannot be promoted in the state.

He assured the governor of his determination to partner with it to improve transport services in the state.

In his welcome address, the chairman of NLC in Kaduna state, Mr. Daniel D. Bissalah said the launching of the buses would checkmate the high cost of transport in the state.