By Awwal Umar Kontagora The Secretary to the Government of Niger State (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, has reaffirmed the state go...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
The Secretary to the Government of Niger State (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with transport unions and regulatory agencies to promote safety, orderliness, and increased internally generated revenue within the freight and haulage sector.
This formed the core of discussions during a Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting held at the SSG’s Conference Hall, Minna, between the Niger State Chapter of the National Freight Haulers Association (NFHA) and representatives of key government institutions.
Representing the SSG, the Permanent Secretary, General Services, Dr. Mohammed Mohammed Makusidi, commended the NFHA for its proactive initiative in uniting freight operators under a recognized national platform.
He reaffirmed that the state government remains open to dialogue and strategic collaboration with organizations whose goals align with its transport reform agenda. According to him, such partnerships will enhance efficiency, security, and transparency in the haulage industry.
The National Chairman of the NFHA presented a detailed report outlining the association’s objectives, achievements, and operational scope, noting that the NFHA has over four million members nationwide across the six geopolitical zones.
He explained that the association operates as a registered private entity working with relevant stakeholders to ensure compliance with transport laws and standards. The Chairman also solicited the Governor’s support and presence at the upcoming inauguration of the Niger State Chapter, requesting an official endorsement, confirmed date, and suitable venue for the event.
In his remarks, the National Organizing Secretary of the NFHA expressed appreciation to the Niger State Government for its hospitality and openness, expressing optimism that the emerging partnership would enhance members’ welfare and contribute to the state’s economic development.
He emphasized that the association’s establishment in Niger State would “create employment opportunities, streamline freight operations, and curb illegal taxation and extortion along transport routes.”
During an interactive session, participants discussed key issues affecting the freight and haulage industry, including harmonized taxation, coordination with security agencies, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.
Representatives from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Niger State Internal Revenue Service (NGSIRS), and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) pledged continued collaboration to promote safety, discipline, and lawful operations in the transport sector.
A representative of the Ministry of Justice underscored the need for a clear legal framework that protects both government interests and the rights of association members, stressing transparency and fairness in regulatory processes.
In his closing remarks, the Secretary of the Association, Abubakar Bosso, thanked the SSG and all participating agencies for their constructive engagement and assured that the NFHA would continue to support government efforts to create a conducive environment for legitimate transport operations.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to partnership and a shared understanding that further consultations will continue ahead of the association’s formal inauguration.
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