Development of Robust Transport Network Will Lay Foundation For Sustained Economic Growth -Dr. Musa

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By Jerry Aguigbo

Having recognized the importance of Transportation in the economy of Nigeria and indeed other nations, the Global Policy Roundtable is seeking a commitment to develop a multimodal system, creating a compelling alternative to road transportation. While suing for national transport Policy to smoothen the rough edges to make the economy competitive.

Dr. Oluwasegun Musa
Chairman/Chief Consultant, Global Transport Policy while delivering his welcome address at the Global Transport Policy Annual Roundtable and Bilingual Magazine Public Launch at the prestigious Lagos Marriott Hotel Ikeja, recently, said the multimodal mode of transportation
will no doubt foster the long needed economic growth. Quoting him, “The thematic thrust of this roundtable aptly captures our heart cry: Transport Infrastructure and Strategic Policy Intervention: Building Blocks for Economic Growth. It is important to recognize that the development of robust transportation networks is not merely about connecting cities and regions; it is about laying the foundation for sustained economic growth, societal advancement, and global competitiveness.”

He added that,”Transport infrastructure serves as the lifeblood of economies, facilitating the movement of goods, people, and ideas. It is the backbone upon which industries thrive, businesses expand, and innovation flourishes. However, the mere existence of transportation networks is not sufficient. What truly catalyzes economic growth is the strategic intervention of policies designed to optimize these networks, ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and inclusivity,” he said.

With this, the tone was set for technocrats at the event to dissect the building blocks for economic growth through transport infrastructure, while also examining the critical role of connectivity. Connectivity which goes beyond geographical boundaries integrating different regions into cohesive economic units. Whether it be roads, pipeline, railways, airways, or maritime routes. Further on, Dr Musa said, “the seamless interconnectivity of transport networks fosters trade, spurs investment, and promotes the exchange of knowledge and expertise. By investing in last-mile connectivity, we can ensure that the benefits of economic growth are shared by all segments of society. Therefore, our first building block is the establishment of a comprehensive, multimodal transport system that enhances connectivity within and beyond our borders, stretching to neighboring countries to further amplify the benefits of African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade.”

He reckoned that beyond mere technological advancements, it is the development of policies that truly reinforces the success of intermodal transport in developed nations. Advanced governments recognize the imperative of fostering an enabling environment conducive to intermodal integration. They invest in infrastructure, enact regulatory frameworks, and incentivize collaboration between public and private stakeholders. It is also imperative to understand that sustainability lies at the heart of 21st-century transportation policy. Developed nations lead the charge in decarbonizing their transport systems, embracing cleaner fuels, electrification, and renewable energy sources. Intermodal transport, with its inherent efficiency gains and reduced environmental footprint, stands as a cornerstone in the quest for sustainability.”

Furthermore, Musa says, “it is evident that the Nigerian government’s commitment to infrastructure development, is clearly outlined in the National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP), presenting opportunities for public-private partnerships and foreign investments. We are also aware of Initiatives such as the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund (PIDF) aimed at accelerating the execution of critical infrastructure projects including the transport industry. With various states joining the fray, it is obvious that it is no longer business as usual.

As seasoned pathfinders with a vibrant faculty of sound technocrats and industry thoroughbreds, Global Transport Policy is committed to best-in-class transformation of the Nigerian transport industry. It’s assemblage of committed transport crusaders with robust global and local insight ensures a holistic approach to execution, this is to enable global competitiveness,” he said.

Other speakers at the event unanimously supported Dr Musa’s argument as according to them a sustainable national transport Policy will not only bring sanity to bear on the transport sector, it will spiral the much needed Infrastructural growth, it’s bound to enthrone massive economic revival and the only way to ensure growth.

The Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Management, Barr. Festus Kyamo (SAN), ably represented by Hon. Henry Agere thanked GTP for providing a platform to discuss transportation matters, even as he described transportation as the lifeblood of the economy. In his words, ” The theme is very apt, as it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision and agenda. The Aviation Ministry is committed to ensuring that the aviation and aerospace sector is efficiently managed with strict adherence to standards, human capital development is at the forefront of our plans to improve the aviation sector.”

While giving his goodwill message, the Managing Director, Kaduna Transport Company, Eng. Inua Ibrahim said that transportation plays a vital role as a means of raising the standard of living and improving Community. He disclosed that Kaduna Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) modelled around that of Lagos, will commence operation in 2027, as every arrangement has been concluded for its take off.

Participants also agreed that unless there is a national transport Policy in place, things will continue to be done halfhazardly , with individuals trying to fit into the vacuum left by lack of government presence .
In the end the Global Transport Policy Bilingual Magazine was officially launched by the Governor of Lagos State, with other dignitaries like the Founder, National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, (NAGAFF) Dr Boniface Aniebonam present. Gifts were handed over to resource persons by Dr Segun Musa, while a raffle draw winner was also gifted a refrigerator.