The success of our recent First Annual NATA News Road Safety Conference & Workshop organized by our Non- Governmental Organisation: Automobiles And Road Safety Initiative; of which I am the Initiator as well as the President can be traced to the newly found enthusiasm of the officials and members of Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), Lagos State Chapter who are now more willing than ever before to upgrade their skills and update themselves about latest developments in the ever developing World Automotive Industry.
For the large turn-out of members of the association, I want to appreciate the contributions of Comrade Asiwaju Jacob Omonide Fayeun-led NATA, Lagos State Chapter Executives.
So, also I want to appreciate the support of the Management of 11 Plc (formally Mobil Oil Nigeria), Eterna Plc (sole franchise owners of Castrol Oil), Ammasco International Oil Limited, the Sector Commander of Federal Road Safety Corps, Lagos Sector Command, CC Hyginus Omeje, his 2-i-C; DCC Olalekan Morakinyo and all the various Unit Commanders that came to add colour to the event.
In the same vein, I thank the personnel of Lagos State Vehicle Inspection Service, the Lagos State Fire Service, Lagos State Computerised Vehicle Inspection Service and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority as well as Mr. Olufemi Esan (Director African Business & Engineering Management Limited), Comrade Magaji Muhammad Sani, Comrade Musa Yahaya and others too numerous to mention here; for taking time out to be part of the historic event and enriching the participants with their experiences in the sector.
However, there are still challenges to overcome in our determination to totally change the orientation of the Nigerian Vehicle Repair Technicians for the better and for the betterment of the motoring Nigerians.
As a matter of urgency, we need to know the exact numbers of the Nigerian Vehicle Repair Technicians; which unfortunately has been a guess work up-till now.
We need to put accurate data in place for the sake of proper planning by interested stakeholders. And to effectively carry out this herculean task, we need the support of all stakeholders in the industry; financially, logistically, morally and in whatever forms possible.
To be honest, it is now that I know that NATA members across the country are just too wonderful. And sticking one’s neck out to work for them diligently will be a great way to leave a lasting legacy for the generations yet unborn!
I doff my hat!!
SAMUEL OLOYEDE ORIOWO
Editor-in-Chief
Tel: +2347083808902
E-mail: oloyede.oriowo@natanews.com.ng