The Chartered Institute of Transport Administration Of Nigeria (CIOTA) is set to hold its 5th National Transport Summit.
The Summit with the theme: “Emerging National Challenges and Prospects in the Transportation Modes,” is schedule December 12th–14th 2023 at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, President and Chairman of Governing Council of the Association, Prince Segun Obayendo said Nigeria, has witnessed dynamic evolution in its transportation landscape over the years and from historic challenges to present-day complexities, the journey has been both challenging and transformative.
“Today, as we confront emerging national challenges, we recognize the critical role that transportation plays in shaping the destiny of our great nation.
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“In reflecting on the past, we acknowledge the hurdles we’ve overcome which include inadequate infrastructure, logistical bottlenecks, and policy regulatory complexities.
Yet, these challenges have served as catalysts for innovation and resilience within the transport sector.
“We at CIOTA remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence, playing a pivotal role in navigating these challenges by advocating for policy reforms and fostering a community of professionals dedicated to advancing our nation’s transport capabilities,” he said.
He added that emergence of new technologies, the possibilities within sustainable transportation, and the potential for increased connectivity hold promise for a brighter tomorrow.
“Our summit aims to be a crucible of ideas, a melting pot where industry experts, policy makers, and thought leaders converge to chart a course for the future.
“It is an opportunity to explore innovative solutions, address current issues, and lay the groundwork for a transportation ecosystem that is not only efficient but also sustainable and inclusive,” he said.
“In a similar vein, at the summit, we will x-ray the challenge of connecting cities and regions to accommodate the growing demands of our populace by rail.
“We would explore the prospect that emerges in the development of high-speed rail and the integration of cutting-edge technology for enhanced connectivity and reliability.
“We are not unmindful of the environmental concerns that persist in the aviation industry.
However, at the summit, we will discuss sustainable technologies and practices that ensure that the skies remain open and blue for generations to come.
We do not forget our waterways, vital arteries of trade, and commerce. The challenge lies in navigating regulatory complexities and ensuring the safety of maritime transport. At the summit, we will discuss the development of a robust maritime infrastructure and fostering international collaborations.
Obayendo disclosed that the keynote speaker, is the Director General of National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Professor Ayo Omotayo, under the chairmanship of the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Kashim Shettima, the Honorable Ministers of Transportation Senator Said Ahmad Alkali, Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency Nyesom Wike as Guest of Honours and a host of other very esteemed dignitaries.
The Chairman National Planning Committee of the Institute, Hon. Umar Sanda Iya said the aim of the summit is to examine the emerging national governance challenges and prospects on all transportation modes; Road, Rail, Aviation, Pipeline and the newly established Maritime and Blue economy.
Iya who is also the Deputy National President added that the institute is the premier chartered professional transport body in Nigeria providing training, membership and certification that specifically addresses the work performed by transport professionals.
It was chartered by act of National Assembly on the 22nd May 2019, and gazetted with federal government Act No. 27 of 2019 as a body corporate with perpetual succession, charged with the responsibility of advancing the study, training and regulating the practice of transport management and administration in Nigeria in all its ramification and for other related matters.
“In line with the public policy advocacy mandate as stipulated by the Act, the institute kick-started her annual national Transport summit event which today has become a one stop event for policy makers and transport professionals to share ideas and best practices that would enable more efficient transport management and administration in Nigeria,” he explained.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman Membership Planning Committee, Budget and Fund-raising Committee, Prof. Odewumi Samuel said the objective of the meeting is for advocacy for transportation and drawing attention to its neglect and the consequences on the economy.
He stated that transportation is the artery through which all socio-economic activities flow and without it life freezes.
Prof. Odewumi added that any government pretending to develop its economy without paying attention to transportation is embarking on an impossible task unfortunately that is the situation in Nigeria.
Stating that transportation is an indispensable sector, the Professor of Transportation explained that removal of subsidy affected transportation rather than addressing it and at least palliative the roads to make movements of goods easy the various governments are not doing the needful.
“CIOTA therefore considers it a duty to draw the government attention to this most neglected factor in the desire to develop this country.
“Also the reason the conference seeks professionalization of the industry to relieve it of the all-comers affairs where touts are ruining the sector,” he stated.
CIOTA formerly known as the Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (IOTA) is the leading and premier Chartered professional transport body in Nigeria.
First established in Great Britain, United Kingdom in 1944 as a professional body dedicated to promoting education to serve the emerging requirements of transport administration.
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