By Foster Obi
Motoring/Maritime Editor
ransportation Minister, Rotimi Amaechi, has reiterated the preparedness of the federal government to partner with Lagos State to improve inland water ways for an efficient transport system.
He said it has become necessary for Lagos to employ other modes of mass transportation as the roads alone cannot cope with its influx of human and vehicular traffic.
Amaechi disclosed that the ministry has forwarded the National Transport Commission and the Nigerian Railway Corporation Bills to the National Assembly (NASS) for consideration.
The plan is to enhance regulation and expland opportunities for private sector investment in critical transport infrastructure.
Amaechi listed the efforts of the ministry to improve transportation to include auditing of the maritime sector, re-establishment of a new national shipping line through a Public Private Partnership (PPP), building modern rail infrastructure to link most of the country, and establishment of inland ports.
He commended the Lagos State government for its focus on transportation development, and urged it to remain committed to its transport master plan.
He assured stakeholders that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has the capacity and political will to deliver on its promises because of its zero tolerance for corruption and commitment to due diligence.