Transport expert, Dr Musa advises government on measures to foster efficiency in transportation industry

Transport expert, Dr Musa advises government on measures to foster efficiency in transportation industry 

The Federal Government has been advised to come up with a comprehensive and sustainable policy framework that can stimulate tangible growth and rejuvenate the transport sector for greater productivity.

The Chairman/Chief Consultant, Global Transport Policy, Dr Oluwasegun Musa, gave this advice in his welcome address, at the just concluded Global Transport Policy Annual Roundtable and Bilingual Magazine Public Launch, held at the prestigious Marriot Hotel, Lagos.

Dr Musa, who spoke on the measures that government should put in place to enhance growth in transport industry said ; “Our first building block is the establishment of a comprehensive, multimodal transport system that enhances connectivity within and beyond our borders, stretching to neighbouring countries to further amplify the benefits of African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA),  to boost intra-African trade.”

He added; “But beyond mere technological advancements, it is the development of policies that truly reinforces the success of intermodal transport in developed nations.”

According to him, 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 stressed 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.

He went on ; “However, the
mere existence of transportation networks is not sufficient. What truly catalyses economic growth is the strategic intervention of policies designed to optimise these networks, ensuring efficiency, sustainability and inclusivity.”

Dr Musa emphasised the importance of connectivity, which he said includes geographical boundaries and
integrating different regions into cohesive economic units.

He pointed out ; “whether roads,
pipelines, railways, airways, or maritime routes, the seamless interconnectivity of transport networks fosters trade, spurs investments and promotes 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 the society”.

Giving specific examples, Dr Musa explained that advanced governments recognise the imperative of fostering an enabling environment conducive for intermodal integration. They invest in infrastructure, enact regulatory frameworks and incentivise collaboration between public and private stakeholders.

He asserted :  “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.

“It is evident that the Nigerian government’s commitment to infrastructure development is clearly outlined in 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.”

Dr Musa maintained that the revitalisation of Nigeria’s transport infrastructure requires bold
vision, decisive action and unwavering commitment.

His words; “By prioritising strategic
policy intervention, we can lay the foundation for sustainable economic growth, job creation and improved quality of life for all Nigerians. Together, we can unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s economy and propel our nation towards a
brighter future. We can ! So let’s rise, bold and daring for the transformation”

More so, the launch of Bilinqual Magazine was indeed an epoch making event, as transport experts, industry players, technocrats, top government functionaries and freight forwarders graced the occasion.

During the panel session, transport experts highlighted the challenges militating against the growth of Nigerian transport  industry, even as they emphasised that a sustainable transport policy is needed, in order to revamp the industry for greater productivity.

The high point of the occasion was the unveiling of Bilingual magazine, which received the loudest ovation. The programme ended after question and answer segment, which paved the way for exhaustive deliberation on the way forward for Nigerian transport industry.