MISS NOLLYWOOD INTERNATIONAL QUEEN HASSANA OZOHU SALISU CALLS OUT SENATOR SAI’DU AHMED ALKALI,
In the tapestry of Africa, Nigeria proudly holds the title of the “Giant of Africa.” Yet, stark contradictions loom large. Despite being one of the richest nations on the continent, it also grapples with the challenges of poverty and infrastructural deficiencies. This paradox is poignantly captured in the recent experience shared by Miss Nollywood International Queen, Hassana Ozohu Salisu. Her insights shed light on a critical issue plaguing the nation’s railway system—highlighting the urgent need for reform to save lives, enhance comfort, and restore dignity for citizens.
An Experience That Shouldn’t Have Happened
During the festive December holidays, Nigerian citizens expected a respite from the usual chaos of travel. The government offered free train services from certain stations, providing hope and a sense of community amid the holiday cheer. However, rather than delivering on its promise, the experience became a painful illustration of mismanagement and negligence.
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Salisu recounted her harrowing journey, where travelers arrived at the train station by 10:00 AM to catch a train scheduled to depart at 2:00 PM. Unfortunately, the train ended up leaving at 7:30 PM—five and a half hours later than anticipated. This glaring inefficiency wasn’t just an inconvenience; it posed real risks to the safety and security of passengers. The lack of security personnel on the train heightened these concerns, making an already stressful situation all the more perilous.
The Dreaded “Sardine Experience” Nigeria Railway
Those who eventually boarded the train quickly discovered that it was overcapacity, with people crammed into the coaches like sardines. Passengers from various states found themselves jostling in overcrowded compartments, many enduring the indignity of using bottled water containers as makeshift toilets. Women cried in anguish as they held in their bladders, with the toilets—locked with padlocks—rendered completely useless.
Mechanical failures compounded the misery, as prolonged loading of baggage stretched the ordeal even further—up to 40 minutes at each stop. This disheartening scene painted a vivid picture of the railway services that are supposed to provide safe, reliable, and convenient transport for the people. Instead, they have become an oppressive burden, showcasing a system that has failed its citizens.
I Hassana Ozohu salisu Plea for Accountability and Improvement
Queen Hassana’s experience raises profound questions about the responsibilities of the Nigerian government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation. How can a nation that generates significant revenue from its railway services allow such a disgraceful experience to occur? It is the duty of the government to invest in systems that prioritize the comfort and safety of its citizens, especially when those systems are part of its own infrastructure.
Her call to action is clear: the railway authorities must prioritize service improvement and ensure that the railway network becomes a viable and safe option for citizens. The difficulties faced during the holiday season are just a microcosm of a more extensive problem that has plagued the railway system for years.
The Bigger Picture: Youth, Employment, and Economic Health
Queen Hassana eloquently pointed out that the issue extends beyond just poor railway services. Nigeria’s economic struggles manifest in various ways, particularly impacting the youth who are desperately seeking job opportunities and entrepreneurial support. It is unacceptable that, in a nation blessed with resources, its young population bears the brunt of mismanagement.
The Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Ahmed Alkali, has a crucial role to play in bringing about the necessary reforms. By learning from leaders in other sectors, such as Ezenwo Nyesome Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, there is potential for transformative change. Wike’s dedication to his work exemplifies the kind of commitment that is needed across the board to uplift Nigeria and its citizens.
Reclaiming Our Giant Status
As Nigerians, we deserve better. The grievances expressed by travelers must not fall on deaf ears. We must call upon our leaders, not only to acknowledge these issues but to take immediate and decisive action to remedy them. It is vital for our nation’s progress that we invest in infrastructure that genuinely serves the people and empowers them.
Nigeria’s title as the “Giant of Africa” should not merely be a label; it must be a reflection of our realities. Let us collectively demand accountability and urge our leaders to pave the way for a brighter future. Together, we can reclaim our status and ensure that every citizen enjoys a standard of living that corresponds with the abundance of resources our nation possesses. It is time for reform—let us make it happen.
