(a) Explain five problems of using rail transport in Nigeria. (b) Write short notes on; (i) Tramp liners (ii) Ocean liners.

Answer Details

(a) Five problems of using rail transport in Nigeria

1. Old and poorly maintained facilities: Many of the rail lines, engines and coaches are old, worn out and inadequately maintained, leading to frequent breakdowns.
2. Limited coverage (narrow network): The rail lines do not reach many parts of the country, so many towns and villages are not served.
3. Slow and unreliable service: Trains are often slow and do not keep strictly to timetable, causing delays for passengers and goods.
4. Inflexibility: Trains can move only along fixed tracks and cannot offer door-to-door delivery, so goods must still be moved by road to and from stations.
5. Inadequate funding and management: Poor funding, mismanagement and shortage of skilled staff have weakened the operation and maintenance of the railway.

Other problems include insecurity/vandalism of tracks and the use of an outdated narrow gauge.

(b) Short notes

• (i) Tramp liners: Tramp ships (tramp liners) are vessels that have no fixed route and no fixed timetable. They sail to any port where cargo is available and carry mainly bulky, full-load cargoes such as timber, grain or coal. Their charges (freight) are not fixed but are negotiated between the shipowner and the shipper.
• (ii) Ocean liners: Ocean liners are ships that ply fixed, regular routes according to a published timetable, whether or not they have a full load. They carry general cargo and passengers between named ports, and their freight charges are fixed and advertised in advance.