Professor Gbadebo Odewumi from the Department of Transport Planning and Policy at Lagos State University (LASU) has raised concerns about the absence of a national transportation policy, arguing that it is impeding the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economy.
Call for Comprehensive Policy
In his 99th inaugural lecture at LASU, Odewumi criticized the current fragmented approach, where different transportation modes are managed by separate government agencies. He advocated for a unified policy that integrates all modes—road, rail, water, air, and pipeline—under a single framework.
He proposed that all transportation units should fall under the Ministry of Transportation, with a minister and a minister of state overseeing each mode, to ensure better integration and coordination.
Concerns and Recommendations
Odewumi highlighted the disorganization within the road sector, which he described as critical, given that it accounts for over 90% of passenger movement. He suggested adopting local materials and technologies for road repair and construction, referencing a Lagos State government-sponsored research project on using solid waste materials for road construction.
Additionally, he stressed the need to professionalize the management of the transportation sector by appointing qualified leaders. Odewumi called for a coordinated approach to transportation policy to fully realize the sector’s potential.