Omolola Fadile, Jos
Stakeholders in the security sector have again urged the Nigerian government to integrate the nation’s vehicle databases with its broader national security network.
This, they believe, would significantly enhance intelligence gathering, reduce vehicle-related crimes, and modernise the country’s transport management systems.
The renewed call was made in Jos, Plateau State Capital, North Central Nigeria, during the 2025 Annual Conference of Directors and Chief Road Traffic Officers of the Federation (VIO)
Participants at the event stressed that unifying vehicle data across government platforms would not only improve law enforcement efficiency but also support national identity management and the tracking of criminal activity.
Declaring the conference open, Governor Caleb Mutfwang emphasised the growing need for technology-driven transport administration to bolster public safety.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Engr. Jeremiah Satmak, the governor, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to adopting digital tools that promote efficiency, enhance security, and strengthen coordination with law enforcement agencies.
“We envision a future where every vehicle in Nigeria can be digitally verified, and transport data directly contributes to national security. Technology should enable us to respond quickly to threats and enforce compliance more effectively,” said Mutfwang.
The governor also highlighted ongoing efforts by his administration to rehabilitate major roads, launch intercity bus routes, and introduce city shuttle services aimed at reducing congestion and improving travel safety.
He added that continued investment in smart traffic systems and modern infrastructure remains key to Plateau State’s growth agenda.
Representing the National Chairman of the Conference, Engr. Bepeh Paul Ugbe, the General Secretary, Engr. Durowaiye Olalekan said the annual meeting provides a forum for harmonizing standards and promoting innovation in vehicle administration nationwide.
Engr. Olalekan emphasized that vehicle registration, licensing, and inspection play vital roles beyond administrative purposes; they are essential tools for safety and national identity management.
“Disjointed systems create loopholes that criminals can exploit,” he warned. “A robust, unified vehicle data framework is crucial for both road safety and national security,” he said.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Shedrack Best, the Vice Chancellor of Plateau State University, described proper vehicle documentation and inspection as underutilised mechanisms for combating insecurity.
He pointed out that vehicles are often both tools and targets of criminal activity, stressing the need for efficient tracking systems.
“When vehicle records are integrated and properly maintained, it becomes much harder for criminals to evade detection,” Best explained. “A central vehicle database would greatly strengthen law enforcement’s ability to investigate and prevent crime,” he stated.
He urged closer cooperation among the Vehicle Inspection Office VIO, the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, the Nigeria Police Force, and the National Identity Management Commission ( NIMC), to establish a shared intelligence network.
Earlier, the Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer of Plateau State, Lady Anna Mweltok, commended Governor Mutfwang for his continued support and advocated for the recruitment of more officers, particularly women, to promote gender inclusion within the service.
One of the major highlights of the conference was the presentation of awards and the investiture ceremony, during which Governor Caleb Mutfwang was conferred with the prestigious title of Grand Mayor of the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS).
The honour was in recognition of his exceptional support, reforms, and contributions to transportation development and road safety management in Plateau State and beyond.
The Jos 2025 Conference brought together directors from the thirty six states and FCT, road traffic officers, and transport administrators from across the federation to deliberate on strategies for harmonizing transport operations, improving road safety standards, and advancing digital vehicle management systems nationwide.