The transport sector is often regarded as a vital sector in the economy of any nation. This is often as a result of the indispensable role that transport or transportation plays in the geographical movement of people, goods and services from one point to another. In effect it bridges the gap between the demand for and supply of goods and services. The role that transport plays in the economy of any nation is akin to the role of the blood in the circulatory system.
This is why serious countries in most parts of the world have evolved an enduring inter-modal transport system; a system that seamlessly integrates all modes of transport be it Land, [Rail &Road] Air and Water in a perfect and effective manner. The reasoning that each mode of transport is best suited for conveying or transporting certain types of goods and services informs the development and complementary roles that each mode of transport enjoys. This is the kernel or theory that underpins the idea behind an “inter-modal” or efficient transport system.
However, as it is not to be completely unexpected, which is attributable to the manner we do things in this clime, the reverse seem to be the case in Nigeria as the transport sector in Nigeria is bedeviled by chaos and a seeming incoherent and inchoate policy characterized by many policy somersaults, so to speak. It is trite to say that of all modes of transport recognized and in operation the world over, it is only the road transport sub sector that seems functional in Nigeria. This has led to an unprecedented level of congestion on Nigerian roads especially by articulated or heavy duty trucks carrying all manner of things and traversing the entire country. The ubiquity of these articulated vehicles on Nigerian roads have become a menace that both inter city and intra city travels on Nigerian roads have become not only a nightmare but a risky venture. The deliberate neglect of the rail sector and cosmetic efforts and approaches aimed at its revitalization by government has made the articulated vehicle the only viable option for conveying bulky goods across the vast lands of Nigeria. This has led to the “invasion” of every stretch of road by these articulated vehicles. This situation is clearly depicted in the way and manner these articulated vehicles park on major highways causing untoward and avoidable traffic hold ups. At times these articulated vehicles break down in the middle of roads in heavily populated cities thereby complicating the already complex traffic situation in such cities, at times also resulting into fatal accidents with heavy casualties.
In view of the inherent disadvantages which outweighs the advantages that over reliance on articulated vehicles as a means of conveying bulky goods over long distances has caused the country, it becomes imperative for those in charge of the transport sub sector of the Nigerian economy to begin to put on their “thinking caps” and begin to fashion out an enduring transport policy for the country.
