Funmi Ogundare
The Rector of Yaba College of Technology, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, has emphasised the critical role efficient transportation and infrastructure play in the country’s economic prosperity, saying that this is significant for economic growth.
Dr. Abdul said this recently at the third edition of Dr. Abubakar Mobolaji Olaseni’s annual lecture series, themed ‘Unlocking Nigeria’s Socio-economic Potentials through Improved Sustainable Transportation and Infrastructure Development’ held in Lagos.
He emphasised the prevalent challenges within Nigeria’s transportation sector, saying there’s an urgent need for comprehensive reforms. He pointed out that an efficient transportation system and infrastructural development in Nigeria are the bedrock of the nation’s economic prosperity.
He said, “The country should earnestly desire a more functional transportation system.”
The rector stated that his administration would give birth to a series of lectures in which topical, relevant issues will be thoroughly discussed in the pursuit of excellence in all spheres of Nigeria’s endeavours.
In his remarks, Samuel Agbeluyi, Chairman of the lecture and the 16th president of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria acknowledged that Nigeria possesses an inadequate network of physical infrastructure, including roads, railways, power facilities, and telecommunication systems.
He expressed concern about inadequate social infrastructure such as education, water supply, and healthcare, which are essential for enhancing the overall welfare of the citizens, saying that a sizable number of the existing infrastructures are deteriorating, requiring urgent repair, rehabilitation, or replacement.
Bamidele Abiona Badejo, the guest lecturer and professor of Geography and Regional Planning, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun, advocated for professionalism in handling the Nigerian transportation system if Nigeria is to Unlock her socio-economic potential.
He stressed the urgent need to improve the current transport modes available in Nigeria through public enlightenment, engagement, education, and robust publicity and advocacy.
He explained further that a strategic framework is needed to coordinate and integrate all transport modes and their policies.
The former transport commissioner in Lagos hinted that since transport is regarded as the engine of growth and development, it is desirable to have in place a transport policy that will guide its relationship with the socio-economic development agenda put in place to calm the nerves of the schools of thought where necessary and applicable.
Olaseni underscored the importance of developing a modern transport system for economic progress.
