Rt Hon. Amaechi, are we safe?

Abuja, August 08, 2016.

Recently, the POTFERON  (President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria) flagged off the commencement of commercial operations for the Abuja-Kaduna rail link.

The project was initiated by the OBJ  regime,  started by Yar  Adua, continued by Jonathan and completed by PMB.

This is good.  There was enough back slapping and joy on the day  to go round. Every Abuja VVIP was there. Only the Chief Justice was left out. It was heartwarming seeing the POTFERON with his usual innocent and sincere smile performing the event, surrounded by beaming Ministers, and the heads of the National Assembly.

SAFETY MATTERS THE MINISTER MUST MANAGE.
Questions arise for the Minister of Transportation on this matter.
How safe are the right of way of the rail line? Hope we would not have villagers causing avoidable casualties by claiming right of way? This question is very vital because an express train is not common to our country, and the speed may be unfamiliar to villagers who tend to see any clearing passing through their domain as additional free space to utilize for trading, or even recreation. Not to mention as a store.

Measures must be put in place to sensitize villagers along the rail trail to avoid tampering with the rail line, or putting anything on the lines.  They must also be educated to steer clear of the vicinity whenever a train is approaching. We can not afford to have avoidable accidents.

There should also be a means of protecting the rail from encroachment by herdsmen who may be crossing the railway with their cattle. They need to be educated to the dangers of carelessness in such circumstances.

Further, the stations most be secured so that it does not become a haven for unwanted entities. Anyone not having business at the stations must not be allowed there. This to prevent muggers and pickpockets.

INSURANCE VITAL.
In all the above, apart from the precautions, the biggest safety issue is personal accident insurance for the passengers.if this has not been effected,  it should be effected forthwith. There should be no compromise. Insurance must be effected, for full value, and premium paid to the underwriters.

NAICOM and the Ministry to collaborate.
NAICOM  being the adviser to government on insurance matters may want to take up this matter. This writer too  can submit necessary advice to government on what needs to be done. Insurance is the civilized risk management measure of choice.

The Passenger Liability ,  and Personal Accident Insurance for workers must be effected. That is what will ensure that we are safe as we step onto the railway platform to enjoy the high speed rail link with Kaduna from Abuja.