In a major move to improve road safety across the nation, the Federal Government announced an upcoming policy that will require all private and public vehicles to be equipped with essential safety kits.
The announcement was made during the launch of an Automobiles Safety Kits campaign in Abuja.
The Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Alkali, articulated the government's intention to establish a safer driving environment.
"Before anyone can demand 'Stop! Where is your kit?', we need a supportive policy. I assure you, in no distant time, we will implement a policy mandating the presence of safety kits in vehicles," he said.
Senator Alkali commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating an investment-friendly climate that enabled West Africa Automobile Services Limited in Nigeria move to make N10bn investment in local manufacturing of automobile safety kits.
"I want to express my gratitude to the President for fostering an environment conducive for such vital investments," he added.
The campaign's launch also featured an address from the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ali Pate, represented by Dr. Kamil Soretire, the Director of Trauma, Emergency, and Disaster Management.
Dr. Soretire announced the initiation of a National Emergency Ambulance Service (NASA), which is already operational in the FCT, Yobe, and Anambra states.
"In case of an accident, victims can dial 112 and an ambulance will transport them directly to the hospital," Dr. Soretire explained, emphasizing that treatment will be covered for the first 24 hours.
Dr. Soretire encouraged West Africa Automobile Services to contribute to the Ministry of Health's four-point agenda under President Tinubu's administration and to participate in making safety kits within the country.
Alhaji (Dr) Musa Mohammed (Maitakobi), National President of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), expressed his organization's enthusiasm for the initiative.
"We invite you to join us in promoting awareness and ensuring road safety for all," Maitakobi declared.
He outlined the objectives of the campaign, which include encouraging the equipping of vehicles with safety kits, educating on their essential components, and promoting safe driving practices.
Festus Osifo, President of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), underscored the event's importance in addressing road safety.
Quoting research, he outlined the dire situation of Nigerian roads and the significant global impact of road accidents.
Osifo urged collaboration to improve population health outcomes and emphasized the importance of safety kits in preventing accidents and assisting during emergencies.
Senator Adamu Aliero, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Land Transport, emphasized the collective responsibility to prevent road tragedies, highlighting the life-saving potential of safety kits.
Ahmed Hafez, CEO of West Africa Automobile Service Limited, expressed solidarity with RTEAN, highlighting safety as a fundamental right.
He discussed the phased approach of introducing safety kits and investing in a local factory, calling for collective support in enforcing their use.
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