By Aliyu Usman, Birnin Kebbi
In a strategic move to enhance road safety, reduce traffic-related fatalities, and ensure vehicle insurance compliance, the Kebbi State Government has successfully conducted an intensive driver safety training program for 800 commercial and government-employed drivers.
The large-scale induction is part of the state’s preparations for the launch of the Kebbi Transport Authority, an initiative backed by Governor Nasir Idris, who recently signed into law the bill establishing the Authority following its passage by the State House of Assembly.
Speaking at the training venue, the Commissioner for Transport and Renewable Energy, Hon. Bala Muhammad Yauri Gagga, emphasized that the state is investing heavily in fleet risk management and automotive safety policy to protect the lives and property of citizens and commuters.
“This government prioritizes accident prevention and public safety. That’s why Governor Nasir Idris has approved recurring training for all drivers in public service and the private transport sector to align them with modern traffic laws and insurance-backed legal requirements,” Gagga stated.
The Commissioner urged drivers to strictly observe vehicle safety regulations, traffic control protocols, and legal driving conduct, especially while operating on public highways.
“Respect for road safety laws is not just a civic duty — it’s a legal obligation with implications for insurance coverage and liability protection,” he added.
Expansion into Waterway Transportation
Hon. Gagga also disclosed that Kebbi State is expanding its multimodal transport infrastructure by deploying government-owned watercraft to serve coastal and riverine communities.
“The Ministry has taken delivery of six boats to enhance water transport across maritime corridors such as Zamare, Yauri, Dolekaina, Ngaski, Samanaji, and Zauro,” he said.
Transport Unions to Benefit from Government-Backed Vehicle Finance
Addressing the demands of drivers’ unions, the Commissioner said discussions are ongoing regarding fleet acquisition through government-backed soft loans or direct subsidies.
“The unions are requesting either direct financial support or access to vehicles via a subsidized loan system — both options are currently being reviewed under the state’s public transport empowerment initiative,” he revealed.
Resolving Regulatory Conflicts with VIOs and Road Safety Officers
On issues of frequent confrontations between Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) personnel, and drivers, Gagga confirmed that dialogues are underway to build a conflict-resolution mechanism that will stabilize transport law enforcement across the state.
Director Advocates for Annual Safety Certification
The Director of the Road Traffic Department, Mallam Danlami Kanya, welcomed participants and reiterated the importance of regular safety education in preventing highway disasters and reducing insurance liabilities.
“This program should be institutionalized as an annual driver certification exercise. The Governor’s decision to revive this training is a major leap in ensuring roadworthiness and public safety compliance,” Kanya said.
He also credited recent improvements in road infrastructure to Governor Idris’s administration, stating that the rehabilitated roads have contributed significantly to a drop in highway collisions and vehicular fatalities.
Board of Internal Revenue Commends the Initiative
The event was formally opened by the Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Board of Internal Revenue, Aminu Abdullahi, represented by State Licence Officer, Ibrahim Abubakar Kalgo, who commended the initiative for its alignment with vehicle registration compliance, tax reform, and public safety mandates.