Join our Telegram group and receive breaking and trending news updates directly on your phone.
Join for News Updates ā
By Thompson Yamput in Lokoja.
The Kogi State Government and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have intensified efforts to tackle persistent traffic congestion around the International Market in Lokoja, warning traders, motorists and transport operators against activities obstructing free flow of traffic in the area.
The warning was issued on Wednesday during a joint road safety sensitisation exercise led by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo on Road Safety, Dr Suberu Yusuf-John, in collaboration with the Kogi State Sector Commander of the FRSC, Mr Lawan Lalu-Fagge, and the Market Task Force.
Speaking during the exercise, Yusuf-John said the action became necessary, following increasing cases of traders and drivers encroaching on roadways and pedestrian paths, thereby causing serious traffic bottlenecks around the busy commercial hub.
He explained that the sensitisation campaign was designed to improve road safety, reduce congestion and ensure smooth vehicular movement within and around the market environment.
According to him, motorists and commercial operators must henceforth make use of approved parking spaces and loading points provided for business activities within the market axis.
He warned truck drivers against the practice of offloading goods on the roadside, stressing that both drivers and owners of such goods risk sanctions if the act continues.
The governorās aide also directed shop owners displaying wares on road shoulders and pedestrian walkways to immediately remove them in the interest of public safety and orderliness.
āThis sensitisation exercise is aimed at educating defaulters on the dangers and traffic implications of roadside offloading, especially on market days,ā he said.
He further cautioned commercial drivers and tricycle operators against indiscriminate parking as well as picking and dropping passengers outside designated parks and approved loading points.
Yusuf-John noted that the team engaged traders, transport operators and other stakeholders on the need for traffic discipline and strict compliance with road safety regulations.
He disclosed that following resolutions reached during a stakeholdersā meeting held on April 15 at the Government House in Lokoja, the government would soon establish a task force to oversee traffic management activities across the state, particularly around major commercial centres.
According to him, the ongoing sensitisation serves as a follow-up to the earlier resolutions and a preparatory step ahead of the commencement of full traffic management operations in the area.
As part of the exercise, the SSA and the FRSC sector commander also inspected designated parking facilities within the market.
They stressed the need for installation of poles and caution tapes to properly demarcate parking and traffic areas ahead of full market-day operations to ensure better coordination among traders, drivers and traffic officials.
The joint exercise, they said, reflects the commitment of the Kogi State Government, the FRSC and market stakeholders to safeguarding lives, promoting safer road use and restoring order around the International Market in Lokoja.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
Strategic Media Partnership for Growth and Reputation: Introducing The Reporters
The Reporters is a dynamic online news publication committed to delivering credible, timely, and impactful journalism across Nigeria and beyond. With a strong foundation in professional reporting and editorial integrity, the platform focuses on social, economic, political, and human development issues that shape public discourse. Backed by decades of journalistic experience, The Reporters offers a trusted voice that informs, educates, entertains, and influences a diverse and engaged audience.
For members of the business community, The Reporters provides a strategic platform to enhance visibility, build brand credibility, and connect with target markets. Through well-crafted news, features, interviews, sponsored content, and digital amplification, businesses can showcase their products, services, and innovations to a wider audience. This engagement not only drives patronage but also positions organisations as key contributors to economic growth and development.
Political actors and aspirants also stand to benefit significantly from partnering with The Reporters. As the 2027 elections approach, the platform offers an opportunity for politicians to effectively communicate their vision, programmes, and track records to the electorate. Through balanced profiling, issue-based coverage, and reputation management content, The Reporters helps shape public perception and strengthens candidatesā connection with voters.
Beyond visibility, The Reporters plays a crucial role in image laundering and perception management, presenting clients in a favourable, credible, and issue-driven light while maintaining ethical standards. By highlighting achievements, clarifying controversies, and projecting leadership qualities, the platform supports politicians in building trust and acceptance among constituents, which are critical assets in any electoral contest.
Engaging with The Reporters is therefore not just about publicity, it is about strategic communication for mutual benefit. Partners gain access to a credible media channel with the wide reach of The Reporters while it continues to fulfill its mandate of promoting development-oriented narratives. We invite stakeholders in both business and political spheres to collaborate with us in shaping informed opinions, driving growth, and advancing democratic engagement.
Prospective clients can reach us via WhatsApp: 08032901058 or email: ahmeddada008@gmail.com.
- Management
