Kano State Government on Saturday flagged off a Smart Transport Solution aimed at improving transportation management and security in the state through the deployment of modern tracking technology.
Speaking during the flag-off, the state’s Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Haruna Isa-Dederi, described the initiative as a technological innovation that will enhance safety and efficiency in Kano’s transport sector.
He said the system, which is new in Kano, is already being utilized in major cities worldwide.
“By the time anyone arrives in Kano, the system ensures they are captured at the station and monitored through cameras as they move into the city. Information is transmitted in real time to the Police, Ministry of Transportation, and the Cabinet Office,” he explained.
He noted that the initiative targets all commercial vehicles, including tricycles, taxis, buses, trailers, tankers, and jeeps, with plans to extend it to private vehicles.
Isa-Dederi also emphasized the importance of private-sector involvement, noting that the initiative aligns with the state’s comprehensive transport policy, which provides a legal framework to encourage investment in road and rail infrastructure.
The Commissioner said full deployment of the system will commence on Monday, following awareness and training sessions with transport unions and local government members.
On his part, Head of Operations of As & Aj Company, Dr. Aminu Umar-Maigari, said the system, which integrates information technology into transport operations, is designed to protect commuters, safeguard public property, and improve transport management.
“This initiative will improve transparency and accountability in transport operations,” he said.
Umar-Maigari added that the application is free for users, with minimal costs for Know Your Customer (KYC) registration and tracker installation at a sum of N28,000, with a 10 percent subsidy by the government for the first one million subscribers.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Vehicle Owners and Transporters of Nigeria (VOTOR), Comrade Nazifi Gidan-Kudi, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and necessary.
He said the Smart Transport Solution would help check excesses among commercial vehicle operators, address unsafe driving and riding practices, and enhance overall security across the state.
NAN reports that the event was attended by representatives of the Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Department of State Services (DSS), and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
Others in attendance included the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Taxi Amana, and Kano State Mini Trucks Drivers Association, among others.
NAN
