With these lengthy petrol queues and high fuel prices, it is time we started thinking about alternative modes of transport. Here are some options for President Tinubu to consider

Ayo Akinfe

[1] A high speed rail network to be constructed across the country over the next 20 years linking all 36 states

[2] Road maintenance is to be given back to the states. The Federal Ministry of Works will ensure funds are disbursed to state governments to cater for stretches that fall within their domains. This will enable states to levy tolls to discourage private car usage

[3] From henceforth, the Federal Ministry of Works will only be responsible for road construction. Once the road is commissioned, maintenance will be handed over to state governors. This will allow states to introduce innovations like car pooling, cycle lanes, etc

[4] We will establish a Nigerian Waterways Management Agency which will be responsible for marine transport. It will dredge the Rivers Niger and Benue and all adjoining rivers such as River Kaduna and create a national maritime network

[5] All states will be required to establish a state-wide bus service in which the state government will hold a minority stake

[6] The federal government will hold a 20% stake in the national railway, maritime, coach and bus services

[7] Currently, 90% of journeys in Nigeria are carried out by road. By 2035, we must reduce this to 40% by moving passengers on to trains and waterways

[8] All freight operators who move their goods on to rail and waterways will get a 20% discount over the next 10 years

[9] Any urban centre with a population in excess of 2m people will be compelled by law to establish a light railway network at the very least

[10] A national travel card scheme will be launched, which enables users to travel on state and federal coaches, buses, trains and marine transport

Ayoakinfe@gmail.com