The Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Alkali has revealed that the Federal Government is dedicated to implementing a variety of strategies to promote and embrace the use of Eco-friendly and sustainable transportation methods across the nation. He mentioned this during the Executive session of the 18th National Council on Transportation Conference in Abeokuta, Alkali stated that the conference aimed to discuss key transportation issues in order to support President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and align the sector with his vision.
Alkali believes that the country’s transportation systems should be updated through leading the way in green Manufacturing and industrialization, with a particular emphasis on utilizing Natural Gas and other Renewable Energy sources as transition fuels. The minister said it is imperative to prioritize cutting-edge technologies in the Transportation Industry to address energy issues, while also highlighting the significance of promoting Sustainability and fostering economic growth. Creating new renewable energy sources and implementing Smart city concepts are additional ways to address transportation challenges through innovative initiatives.
Policy draft of NLTP is near completion at 80 percent.
He emphasized the importance of allocating funds strategically to address energy issues and offering incentives to encourage Private Sector funding for de-carbonization and Technology innovation. Alkali also highlighted the Federal Government’s dedication to implement policies and strategies to promote a reliable, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation system in recent years. He praised the Federal Ministry of Transportation for their impressive technological progress, which is expected to improve transportation in a way that benefits both the environment and the economy.
During his speech, Alkali mentioned the progress made by the ministry in creating a comprehensive National Land Transport Policy (NLTP), focusing on areas like Alternative Energy and Climate Change. He added that the policy draft is near completion at 80 percent and they are excited to invite everyone to collaborate on finalizing the draft for submission to the Federal Executive Council for approval. The primary objective of the National Transport Policy is to establish a comprehensive and sustainable transportation network that is safe, environmentally friendly, cost-effective, convenient, and harmoniously connected, all while operating within a dynamic and competitive economic environment.
Individuals urged to embrace new technologies in transportation.
The minister praised the state government for their dedication to advancing Multimodal Transport, as well as their support for e-mobility and Gas Mobility Projects. He emphasized the importance of a reliable transportation system in improving all aspects of society, urging individuals to embrace and develop new technologies in transportation. In his part, Gov. Dapo Abiodun said the conference’s theme highlighted the sector’s awareness of present difficulties, circumstances, and boundaries, showing readiness to provide lasting remedy.
Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who spoke on behalf of Gov. Abiodun noted the significant impact of the transportation industry on both the national and state economies, highlighting its crucial role in fostering sustainable growth and development. The Nigerian government has, in recent years, set out on implementing various programs to encourage environmentally friendly transportation. These initiatives are outlined in the country’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP), which provides a timeline and framework for reducing Emissions in various segments, including the transportation sector.
Related Article: FG to deploy 1m gas-powered vehicles by 2027
Among other notable initiatives set out is the Oando Clean Energy initiative, with the aim to deploy 12000 electric buses in Nigeria as part of the global effort to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. Also, President Bola Tinubu revealed a plan to introduce 100 electric buses in Nigeria as part of efforts to reduce carbon emissions and upgrade the country’s transportation system. This was mentioned during a meeting with stakeholders and Investors in Dubai, UAE, at the COP28 conference.