Players in the Nigerian transport sector have been urged to embrace innovation for the sustainable growth of the sector. Speaking at the maiden edition of Just Alive Transport Summit held in Lagos, Nigeria, the convener of the Summit held under the theme ‘Nigeria’s Transport Infrastructure: Innovation For A Sustainable Future’, Mrs. Pearl Ngwama, highlighted the importance of transportation in driving economic growth and national development.
Mrs. Ngwama stressed the significance of transportation in connecting markets, facilitating trade, and improving productivity. She noted that “transport achieves much more: it is a catalyst for wealth creation, a vital enabler of economic growth and a foundation for national development.”
She also highlighted the country’s potential for growth, citing its abundant natural resources, expansive arable land, young and vibrant population, and strategic geographical position in West Africa. “Nigeria is richly endowed. We are blessed with abundant natural resources, expansive arable land, a young and vibrant population, and a strategic geographical position on the Atlantic Coast of West Africa,” she said.
On the aviation sector, Ngwama noted “in 2023, the aviation (air-transport) sector contributed approximately N215.6 billion to Nigeria’s GDP – with Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt airports contributing over 70% of that total”. She emphasized the need for modern transport infrastructure, including airports that “become continental hubs for passengers and cargo.”
The Summit aimed to yield practical outcomes, including a strong communique, actionable recommendations, and a roadmap for investment and policy. Ngwama hoped that the summit would “not simply be another ‘talk show'” but would lead to tangible results.
The Summit was attended by stakeholders in the transport industry including Mr. Fola Tinubu, Managing Director, Primero Transport Services, Prof. Bamidele Badejo, Former Commissioner for Transportation, Lagos State, Dr. Segun Musa, CEO, Global Transport Policy (GTP), Mr. Remi Jibodu, COO, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Capt. Samuel Caulcrick, Former Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation (NCAT), Group Captain John Ojikutu (RTD), Former commandant of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Dr Alex Nwuba, President, Aircraft Owners and pilots Association of Nigeria, amongst many others.