To avert attacks on railway services in Nigeria, the Federal Executive Council (FEC), yesterday, approved N495 million for procurement and installation of baggage scanners in some railway stations in the country.
Specifically, the baggage scanners will be installed at Kubwa, Idu, Jere, Rigassa, Kaduna and Kano railway stations. Minister of State for Transportation, Ademola Adegoroye, who disclosed this at the end of FEC meeting, presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, revealed that the cost of the contract was put at N495 million by members.
According to him, the installation of the devices has become necessary, considering the need to enhance security of life and property in the nation’s railway facilities.
The minister said: “The Federal Ministry of Transportation had two memos today, which I presented on its behalf, and it had to do with provision of scanners at all railway stations all over the country.
“You’ll all agree with me that in view of security of life and property, such equipment has to be installed at our railway stations. Since we’re starting railway revolution, we are trying to put in place a lot of things. We don’t want people to come and damage all that government has been trying to put in place in that sector.
“So, today there was a memo before council for provision of baggage scanners at railway stations, and I’m happy to inform you that the council agreed with us and has approved that contract for installation of the equipment be awarded so that people can pass their goods through the scanners to ensure there’s nothing that can cause destruction, violence or inflict danger or bring life and property at stake.”
