The Nigeria Transportation Commissioners Forum (NTCF), under the leadership of its Chairman, Engr. Olugbenga Dairo, has inaugurated the 2nd National Stakeholders’ Forum on the National Urban Mobility Program (NUMP) for Nigeria in Abuja.

The high-level engagement, held with the support of the World Bank, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), and the Federal Ministry of Transportation, represents a significant milestone in the collective effort to transform urban transportation systems across the country.

In his opening remarks, Engr. Dairo stated that the forum is aimed at driving a coordinated and sustainable transformation of urban mobility in Nigerian cities and towns.

He recalled that outcomes from the maiden stakeholders’ forum held in September 2024 informed the World Bank’s decision to undertake an in-depth urban transport study in selected cities, which subsequently led to the development of the National Urban Mobility Program.

Engr. Dairo noted that the forum comes at a strategic time, following the Federal Government’s adoption of the National Land Transport Policy, and commended the Federal Ministry of Transportation for moving swiftly from policy formulation to practical implementation by positioning the NUMP as a central framework for urban transport reform.

According to him, the NUMP is designed as a collaborative national framework to support states in modernizing transport infrastructure, improving service delivery, reducing congestion, and enhancing commuter safety and welfare.

Engr. Dairo emphasized that the forum provides a critical platform for state commissioners to align with federal priorities and to explore technical and financial partnerships required for successful implementation.

Contributing to the discussions, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Ondo State on Transport, Akogun Olugbenga Omole, reaffirmed the commitment of the Ondo State Government to the objectives of the NUMP.

He highlighted ongoing and planned initiatives by the state to improve urban mobility, noting that participation in the national programme would further strengthen planning, coordination, and access to development support for sustainable transport solutions in Ondo State.

He, therefore, underscored the importance of effective institutional coordination and data-driven decision-making in achieving the goals of the NUMP.

Also, the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Tope Lebile noted that administrative efficiency and inter-agency collaboration remain key to translating national policies into measurable outcomes at the state level.

Similarly, the Director of Planning, Research and Engineering ,Engr.Gbenga Ajibola emphasized the role of research, planning, and innovation in urban mobility reforms.

He stated that evidence-based planning and continuous capacity development would enable states to design transport systems that are inclusive, resilient, and responsive to the needs of growing urban populations.

During a panel session on “Perspectives on Urban Mobility in Nigeria,” participants acknowledged the financial and political challenges confronting the transport sector. Engr. Dairo reiterated that the NTCF is working closely with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to strengthen intergovernmental collaboration and to ensure that transport remains a priority in national and sub-national development agendas.

The forum concluded with a shared commitment by stakeholders to deepen cooperation, mobilize resources, and accelerate the implementation of sustainable, efficient, and inclusive urban mobility solutions as a catalyst for economic growth and improved quality of life for Nigerians.

Bimpe Akinduyite,
Ministry of Transport.