On October 8, 2024, Hon. Osakwe Abiazie Modestus, the Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, welcomed the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Imo State Chapter, to his office at the Imo State Secretariat on October 7, 2024. The meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation between the union and the state government in ensuring the safety and security of transportation services in the region.
The delegation was led by Hon. Samuel Udeh, the Chairman of NURTW Imo State. The visit provided an opportunity for the union’s leadership to engage with the state’s security agencies and discuss vital issues concerning the transportation sector. During the meeting, the Commissioner expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with the NURTW to promote a secure environment for transportation in Imo State.
In his remarks, Hon. Modestus emphasized the importance of the 3R vision (Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Recovery) initiated by His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma. This vision aims to enhance security and improve the living conditions of the people in Imo State. He noted that the transport sector plays a critical role in the state’s economy and that ensuring the safety of commuters is paramount.
“The safety and security of our roads are crucial for the smooth operation of our transport system,” Hon. Modestus stated. “We must work together to address the challenges faced by the transport sector and find innovative solutions that will benefit all Imolites.”
The discussions during the meeting focused on the progress made by the NURTW, as well as the challenges it faces in the current operating environment. Hon. Udeh highlighted the need for improved security measures to protect transport workers and passengers alike. He called for increased collaboration with security agencies to tackle issues such as road safety, traffic congestion, and criminal activities that affect the transportation sector.
Furthermore, the NURTW Chairman expressed appreciation for the state government’s efforts to improve security in Imo. He acknowledged the positive impact of recent initiatives aimed at reducing crime and enhancing safety on the roads. “We appreciate the efforts of the government in making our roads safer,” Hon. Udeh said. “However, there is still much work to be done, and we look forward to a stronger partnership with the Ministry of Homeland Security.”
Both leaders agreed on the importance of establishing regular communication between the NURTW and security agencies to address emerging challenges in the transportation sector promptly. They also discussed potential training programs for union members to enhance their understanding of safety protocols and security measures.
As part of the meeting, Hon. Modestus encouraged NURTW leaders to play a proactive role in educating their members about safety practices. He urged them to report any suspicious activities on the roads to the relevant authorities promptly.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from both sides to work together in creating a safer environment for all road users in Imo State. Hon. Modestus assured the NURTW leadership that the Ministry of Homeland Security would continue to support their efforts and work towards a more secure and efficient transportation system.
In the coming weeks, the Ministry plans to organize a joint workshop with the NURTW to address specific security concerns and explore innovative strategies to improve transportation safety in the state. This initiative aims to foster a collaborative approach to securing the transport sector and enhancing the overall safety of Imo State’s roads.
The gathering not only marked a significant step in enhancing security within the transport sector but also highlighted the government’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders in addressing the challenges facing the industry.
