by Geoffrey Kingsley
Head public affairs, Nigerian Port Authority and founder/project co-ordinator Goshen Gate Foundation Port-Harcourt, Dr. Chijioke Ukadike has stated that the transportation sector remained the largest employer of labour if governments at all levels take more holistic view of the sector using professionals in the system.
Dr Ukadike disclosed this to journalist during the 29th convocation ceremony recently held at the University Of Technology Owerri Where he acquired a Doctorate Degree Of Philosophy (Ph.D), Degree In Transport Management Technology, pointing-out that the quest for knowledge is insatiable as the problem of the industry remained the lack of trained professionals to drive the industry to a greater height, which prompt him to update his knowledge with more intellectual balance to make more positive impact in the Nigerian transport sector.
Dr. Ukadike appreciated Federal Government’s effort towards reviving rail transport, noting that with the rail system if fully functional, it will ensure movement of agricultural produce from rejoins of comparative advantage to markets where they are mostly needed which will boost trade in the country and ease pressure on Nigerian roads.
He gave instances of countries with efficient and effective rail system stressing that Nigerian stands to gain an enormously in areas of employment opportunities and revenue if critical measures are put in place. He pointed out lapses in the system and posited that government need to accept that there are problems in the sector and tackle them head-on with deliberate plans that will bridge the gaps in the industry through professional and workable policies.
