The Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali has reiterated the significance of the transport sector in the nation’s economy, describing it as a strong enabler of economic growth and a reservoir of immense potential.
Alkali stated this during the 2024 Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NIIT) management retreat held in Kaduna on Tuesday.
In his keynote address at the event, the minister stressed the importance of implementing a Performance Management System to measure progress, identify areas for improvement, and recognise excellence within NITT.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for prioritising transportation in his governance agenda and commended the NITT management for organising the retreat.
“The transport sector is crucial to Nigeria’s economic growth, and we must ensure that our institutions are equipped to drive this growth,” he said.
“The Performance Management System will enable us to track our progress, identify challenges, and make data-driven decisions to improve our services,” the minister added.
The minister highlighted NITT’s vision to position itself as the premier institution for transport training, research, and innovation in Africa while emphasising the need for NITT to produce graduates who are job creators, innovators, and leaders in transport policy.
“We must focus on producing graduates who can drive the transport sector forward, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth,” Alkali said.
He also emphasised the importance of embracing technological advancements, changing consumer behaviours, and global economic shifts in the transport sector.
He highlighted the need for sustainability, focusing on electric vehicles, autonomous transportation, and green transport solutions.
“We must be proactive in addressing the challenges facing the transport sector, including climate change and environmental degradation. We must invest in sustainable solutions that will ensure the long-term viability of our transport systems,” he said.
Earlier, in December 2023, Alkali defended the Ministry’s 2024 budget of N46.6 billion before the Joint Committee of the Senate and the House of Representatives on Land Transport.
He expressed hope that the budget would enhance the transportation sector, addressing critical needs in the country’s rail infrastructure.
However, the minister noted that funding remained a significant challenge, with an estimated investment portfolio of US$35 billion required to achieve an adequate and functioning railway transportation system.
Alkali urged participants to commit to their roles outlined in the performance bond, emphasising accountability and excellence.
“I charge you all to take ownership of your roles, striving for excellence and accountability in all that you do. Together, we can drive the transport sector forward, contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and development,” the minister added.
Earlier in his remarks, NITT’s Director General, Dr. Bayero Farah, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to driving growth in the transport sector, leveraging its achievements, and forging new perspectives for sustainable development.
“We are working as a family in the Institute, and we are always prepared to deliver on our mandate,” Farah said.
The retreat, themed “Realigning NITT’s Vision with Performance Management System (PMS) and the Dynamics of the Transport Industry,” aimed to reflect on the Institute’s achievements and chart a new course for growth.
Farah added that with its renewed focus, NITT was poised to drive growth in the transport sector, supporting Nigeria’s economic development.
“We will work tirelessly to ensure the Institute remains at the forefront of transport technology and innovation,” the NITT boss assured.
