ABUJA – Mr Abdullahi Aremu, the Director-General of Advocacy for Economic Integrity, an NGO, on Thursday called for an integrated transport system aimed at enhancing employment, poverty reduction and economic development in the country.
Aremu, who made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, described integrated transport system as a veritable tool for achieving sustainable economic development.
He said an efficient transport system covering rail, waterways, air and road, would positively affect the socio-economic life of the citizenry.
According to him, an integrated transport system will minimise production cost and encourage further investment.
“A reliable transportation mode would encourage output and ensure continuity while supply increases rapidly.
“It is important to know that reliable and affordable transport services that are on modal line serve as a catalyst that promote the vicious circle of economic development,’’ Aremu said.
He recalled that Nigeria had in time past benefited tremendously from rail transport, which led to the development of industries in various parts of the country.
The director-general said the means of transport was at the same time used to ferry heavy cargo across the country.
“The dominance of road has overshadowed the areas of waterways and railway. Consequently, we are faced with enormous challenge of economic and social development,’’ he said.
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Aremu said when operational, the rail system would generate employments for many people.
According to him, the desire epitomises the overall goal of an integrated transport system along with economic development. (NAN)
