…..As Institute Inaugurates State Chapters
Members of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA) has been urged to work together to build a robust and sustainable transport sector that catalyzes national development.
This was stated in the keynote address delivered by the Chairman of the Membership and Planning Committee, Prof. Odewumi Samuel during the inauguration of State Chapters of the Institute at a virtual event on Wednesday.
According to him, transport is the backbone of economic development, social integration, and national progress and efficient transport systems facilitate commerce, ensure seamless mobility, and drive economic prosperity.
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“As Nigeria continues to evolve due to urbanization, technological advancements, and infrastructural growth, the role of professional transport administrators becomes more critical than ever,” he stated.
He added that establishing state chapters under CIOTA represents a bold and strategic move to decentralize the institute’s operations, foster inclusivity, and promote regional development within the transport sector.
Stating that the inauguration of the chapters is a historic milestone in the journey of CIOTA, Prof. Odewumi disclosed that through these chapters, the institute aim to Enhance Professionalism and Capacity Building; Strengthen Policy Advocacy and Implementation; Promote Research and Innovation; Encourage Stakeholder Engagement and Increase Membership and Public Awareness.
Prof. Odewumi listed significance of the event to include, Milestone in CIOTA’s Growth and Expansion; Decentralization and Regional Development; Enhancement of Professionalism and Capacity Building; Strengthening of Policy Advocacy and Implementation; Promotion of Research and Innovation in Transport Administration; Encouraging Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration; Expansion of CIOTA Membership and Public Awareness; Catalyst for Sustainable Transport Development; Commitment to Excellence and Integrity and National Development and Economic Growth.
He added: “Ladies and gentlemen, the task ahead is enormous, but I am confident that we will achieve remarkable progress with dedication, passion, and strategic collaboration.
“As we inaugurate these state chapters today, let us remain committed to upholding the values of professionalism, integrity, and excellence in transport administration.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to CIOTA’s leadership, the state coordinators, and all members who have worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life. I urge every member to embrace this new phase with enthusiasm and a renewed sense of responsibility.
On the action plan (2024-2026) for the newly inaugurated state chapter executives, the Professor of Transport Planning and Policy said Year 1 (2024) is for Establishment and Strategic Planning, Year 2 (2025), Capacity Building and Policy Implementation and Year 3 (2026) is for Growth, Innovation, and Sustainability.
In his remarks, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Segun Obayendo, charged the new exco to ensure professionalism accross the States and very soon the institute will have chapters across the 774 Local Government to complete the journey to ultimate professionalism in Nigeria in terms of the transport sector.
Adding that the event is remarkable and unique because it’s going to mark the beginning of having an institute where the structures will speak for them, the president said: “where our structures will be our strength where our structures will enable that visibility that is overdue for us as a premier institute and as the only institute licensed by law in Nigeria.
“I cherish and truly want to see an organisation that is well structured just like we have three tiers of government, the local, the state and of course the national. We are also looking in that regard as we march on in this journey of ensuring that our institute gets a befitting rebirth and a befitting reset to carry on all the responsibilities bestowed on us by our act.
Obayendo expressed satisfaction with the progress of CIOTA and encouraged newly inaugurated state chapter leaders to be up and doing especially by making their impact felt in the transport sector of their states especially in terms of policies and the likes.
He reiterated the need for rapid progress in the remaining 21 months of the administration and wishes everyone success in their roles.
The President administered the oath of office to the newly elected State Executive and Zonal Coordinator members, represented by Pascal Noli, the Abuja chairman.
The oath covers adherence to the Institute’s code of ethics, loyalty, attendance of meetings and events, advancing the transport profession, honesty, and avoiding actions that could damage the Institute’s reputation. Members are reminded that the Institute reserves the right to take action if the oath is violated.
With over 90 participants at the meeting, representatives was from 23 states across the country including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, participants are optimistic that the inauguration of state chapters will increase the visibility and more recognition for CIOTA.
BV.
