The Federal Government has approved a N495 million contract for the purchase and installation of baggage scanners at selected railway stations in Nigeria. The move is aimed at reducing the risk of attacks on the country’s rail facilities. The baggage scanners will be installed at Kubwa, Idu, Jere, Rigassa, Kaduna, and Kano railway stations. Speaking to reporters after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, Minister of State for Transportation, Ademola Adegoroye, stated that the devices are essential to enhance security and protect lives and property at railway stations.
The minister further stated that the government is investing in the railway sector and wants to ensure that people do not cause damage to the facilities. With the installation of scanners at the railway stations, people with goods can pass through and be sure that nothing can destroy, cause violence, or bring lives and property at risk.
In addition, the FEC also approved another memorandum for the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to provide towing services for the new Lekki Deep Seaport and the Dangote Jetty in Lagos. The council approved a ten-year concession to Messrs Arcuff to provide towing services at the two locations to ease operations at the ports.
Furthermore, a new policy on Agricultural Extension Service was also approved by the FEC to make the practice of agriculture in Nigeria more technology-driven and support the drive at food and nutrition security in the country. Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mohammed Mahmood Abubakar, disclosed that the ministry had recruited over 100,000 extension service agents in 2022.
With the introduction of baggage scanners, rail passengers can now enjoy a safer journey. The government’s investment in the railway sector is crucial to the country’s economic growth and development. The new policy on Agricultural Extension Service will also support the government’s efforts to improve food security and create jobs for Nigerians.