The Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) of the 36 states and Abuja are set to converge in Jos to brainstorm and rid Nigerian roads of rickety vehicles to ensure safe, secure roads.

The national chairman of VIO, Paul Bepeh, who briefed journalists on Monday in Jos, said the three-day conference tagged “Jos 2025” would commence on Tuesday.

Mr Bepeh, represented by the national secretary, Durojaye Olalakan, said motor vehicle administration was central to national security.

The national chairman added that the conference would bring together directors and chief road traffic officers across the country in Jos to promote professionalism and effective service delivery.

He said that vehicle administration enables proper identification, regulation, and tracking of vehicles and drivers across the country.

“Weak registration and inspection systems would encourage unroadworthy vehicles.

“Untrained drivers and crimes such as kidnapping, smuggling, terrorism, and vehicle theft would be mitigated with proper vehicle administration.

“The theme of the conference, ‘Enhancing National Security and Road Traffic Safety Through Effective Motor Vehicle Administration’, is timely amid Nigeria’s rising safety and security challenges,” he said.

He highlighted VIOs’ roles in vehicle inspection, accident investigation, driver testing, data management, public education, and collaboration with FRSC, police, and other agencies.

Mr Bepeh listed some VIO challenges, including poor funding, weak legal frameworks, focus on revenue, inadequate equipment, poor public perception, weak enforcement, and lack of centralised digital data systems.

The national chairman called for legal reforms, automation, improved training, public enlightenment, inter-agency cooperation, better funding, and welfare for officers to strengthen motor vehicle administration.

He said the conference would provide solutions through expert discussions, policy dialogue, and a communique to guide harmonised, technology-driven motor vehicle administration nationwide.

Plateau commissioner for transportation, Davou Gyang, welcomed delegates to the National Conference of Directors and Chief Road Transport Officers of the Federation.

Mr Gyang said the conference theme aligned with the state government’s ongoing transport reforms.

The commissioner highlighted the successful introduction of the Tin City Metro buses, which he said were safe, secure, and affordable, and have recorded no security incidents since deployment.

He also disclosed that safety measures have been introduced for motorcycle operations.

“These include QR code technology to help commuters verify riders’ identities and share travel details with relatives,” he explained.

According to him, surveillance cameras have been installed at Plateau Hospital and Hill Station roundabouts, and Situation Room monitors real-time activities to enhance transport safety and security.

The commissioner commended the state governor for his commitment to improving road transport infrastructure and services across the state.

(NAN)