Stakeholders Push Transport Safety as Dr. Julius Kijuo Becomes JNTSC Chairman

Ukorebi Esien | September 12, 2025

CALABAR – The Joint National Transport Safety Committee of Nigeria (JNTSC), in partnership with the Office of the Inspector General of Police and the Cross River State Government, has inaugurated its state taskforce to enforce safety and security compliance in the haulage and transport sector.

The event began with courtesy visits to the Cross River State Commissioner of Police and the Commissioner for Transport, before the official inauguration of Dr. Julius Obanghe Kijuo as Chairman of the Cross River State Chapter of Joint National Transport Safety Committee of Nigeria (JNTSC). The programme later climaxed with a stakeholders' engagement on transport reforms and compliance in the haulage sector.

Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Ekpenyong Cobham, decried sharp practices in the transport sector, particularly the issuance of roadworthiness certificates without due inspection. "We cannot continue to allow people to buy certificates while their vehicles remain death traps. This is not just about policy; it is about saving lives," he declared. He urged the newly inaugurated taskforce members to see their assignment as service beyond duty. "You are not just working for man, you are working for God. Every life saved on our highways is a legacy of service."

In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Kijuo pledged to align the committee's work with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Bassey Otu's People-First Agenda. Stressing the strategic role of Cross River as a border and trade hub, he promised strict enforcement of safety standards. "We will insist on regular vehicle inspections, enforcement of speed limits, prevention of overloading and spillage, and monitoring against drug abuse among drivers," he assured.

National Chairman of JNTSC, Ambassador Taiwo Oluwatamilare Mogugu, commended the state for embracing reforms, pledging support from the national body. "We are working to integrate all state transport ministries into standardized vehicle inspection systems. What is starting here in Cross River will become a national model," he said.

Stakeholders present emphasized the need for synergy among government agencies, transport unions, and security operatives to minimize road accidents and safeguard lives.

With the inauguration, Cross River joins other proactive states in reforming haulage operations and strengthening safety compliance across Nigeria's highways.

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