CIOTA vows to reposition Nigeria’s transport infrastructure, governance, logistics subsector

…. Sets to Host 7th National Transport Conference in Abuja

By Cynthia Yusuf, Abuja

Arrangements and preparations are in top gear for the commencement of the 7th National Transport Conference of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration (CIOTA), scheduled to hold from November 4–6, 2025, at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.

Speaking at a press briefing, held at  the CIOTA’s National Secretariat in Abuja, the Chairman of the 7th National Transport Conference Planning Committee, Adewumi Samuel, disclosed that the annual event has grown into a premier platform for shaping discourse around Nigeria’s transport and logistics development.

He noted that the conference brings together government policymakers, industry operators, investors, and academics in pursuit of sustainable mobility solutions.

Adewumi explained that the theme of this year’s conference, “Repositioning Nigeria’s Transport Infrastructure and Governance Models for Global Competitiveness,” is both timely and critical to national development aspirations.

“The theme underscores the urgent need to re-engineer our transport infrastructure and governance systems to meet international standards. 

“In a world driven by efficiency, safety, digitalization, and green innovation, Nigeria must reposition its transport and logistics framework to become globally competitive and supportive of trade, investment, and inclusive growth,” Adewumi Samuel stated.

According to him, the 7th National Transport Conference will feature keynote presentations, technical sessions, and panel discussions addressing opportunities and challenges across the rail, road, maritime, aviation, and logistics subsector.

Adewumi further revealed that the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Uba Sani, will chair the conference, while the Minister of Transport, Said Alkali, will deliver the keynote address. Other ministers and heads of government agencies, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, are also expected to make presentations.

Highlighting CIOTA’s commitment to inclusivity, Adewumi noted that critical stakeholders in the transport sector — including NURTW, NARTO, RTEAN, and unions from the aviation and maritime sectors — will actively participate in the conference.

The President/Chairman of Council, Segun Obayendo

described the conference theme as a testament to the collective determination to align Nigeria’s transport and logistics systems with modern international standards that promote efficiency, sustainability, safety, and innovation.

He disclosed that papers will be presented on key topics such as Land Transport Policy and Infrastructure Development, Marine and Blue Economy Policy and Infrastructure Development, Inclusivity and Enhancing Transport Unions’ Participation, Professional Development and other thought-provoking presentations.

Obayendo stressed that the conference will also feature media and stakeholder engagement, underscoring CIOTA’s recognition of the vital role the media, private sector, and investors play as critical partners in advancing Nigeria’s transport sector.

He emphasized that the 7th National Transport Conference comes at a defining moment in Nigeria’s transport evolution, given the ongoing reforms. Building efficient, sustainable, and globally competitive systems, he said, is imperative for the nation’s socioeconomic development.