The Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) has affirmed its commitment to collaborating with security agencies to combat criminal activities on the nation’s highways. This partnership aims to enhance the safety of road travel, which has become increasingly important due to the suspension of train services, particularly along the Abuja-Kaduna corridor. The association emphasizes the noticeable improvements in security on the roads, attributing these gains to the joint efforts of transporters, unionists, and security operatives. This collaborative approach involves sharing intelligence and coordinating efforts to apprehend criminals, leading to a more secure environment for passengers. While acknowledging that achieving 100% safety is an ongoing process, RTEAN assures the public that significant progress has been made in curbing highway insecurity.
The suspension of train services, especially on the Abuja-Kaduna route, has underscored the importance of road transportation. This vital corridor, previously a preferred alternative to road travel due to perceived safety advantages, was shut down following security breaches and acts of vandalism, including a recent derailment incident on August 27, 2025, currently under investigation. The disruption of train services has inevitably increased the demand for road transport, placing greater emphasis on the need for enhanced security measures to protect passengers. RTEAN’s proactive approach to security collaboration aims to address these concerns and restore public confidence in road travel.
RTEAN’s General Secretary, Yusuf Ibrahim, highlighted the association’s active role in the security collaborative efforts. He emphasized that transporters and unionists are providing crucial support to security agencies, working together to identify and apprehend criminals operating on the highways. This cooperation extends to sharing information and intelligence, aiding in the tracking and arrest of those responsible for criminal activities. Ibrahim underscored the significant progress made in improving road safety, noting that the current administration is committed to providing the necessary resources and support for these initiatives. He assured the public that although perfect security may not be immediately attainable, the roads are significantly safer than in the past, thanks to the ongoing collaborative efforts.
The association’s dedication to passenger safety is further reflected in its efforts to promote the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a fuel alternative. RTEAN is working to ensure the widespread availability of CNG across the country, particularly in major cities. Recognizing the economic benefits of CNG, the association anticipates that its adoption will contribute to a reduction in transport prices, providing relief to commuters burdened by rising transportation costs. This initiative aligns with the association’s broader commitment to improving the overall experience of road travel, encompassing both safety and affordability.
The increased reliance on road transportation due to the suspension of train services underscores the importance of RTEAN’s commitment to passenger safety. The Abuja-Kaduna train route, once a sanctuary from highway insecurity, is now unavailable, leaving road travel as the primary mode of transport for many. This situation highlights the significance of collaborative efforts between RTEAN and security agencies to ensure the protection of passengers on the highways. The ongoing investigations into the train derailment incident further emphasize the vulnerability of transportation infrastructure and the need for continuous vigilance in maintaining security.
In conclusion, RTEAN’s partnership with security agencies represents a crucial step in addressing the challenges of highway insecurity in Nigeria. The association’s proactive approach, combined with the government’s commitment to providing necessary resources, has resulted in significant improvements in road safety. The promotion of CNG as a fuel alternative further demonstrates RTEAN’s dedication to enhancing the overall experience of road travel, making it both safer and more affordable. As road transportation becomes even more critical due to the disruption of train services, RTEAN’s continued collaboration with security agencies will play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers across the nation’s highways. The association acknowledges the challenges ahead, recognizing that achieving absolute security is a continuous process, but remains committed to its ongoing collaboration with security agencies to maintain the momentum of progress achieved thus far.
