The Federal Government of Nigeria has been called upon to urgently address the inadequate administration of the country’s road network, which remains poorly managed despite being responsible for 90 Percent of the nation’s mobility.
This appeal was made by Professor Samuel Odewumi from the Department of Transport Planning and Policy in the Lagos State University LASU, while delivering the institution’s 99th inaugural lecture held at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, Ojo.
The 99th inaugural lecture with the title: “Walking Our Way Back To The Garden of Eden: Envisioning A Model Of The Complete Metamorphosis Of The Urban Transportation System Trajectory”, focused on Nigeria’s urban transportation challenges and the need for comprehensive reform.
Professor Odewumi highlighted the fragmented nature of the country’s transportation sector, which is currently split across various ministries, including Transport, Aviation, and Works, leading to inefficiency and stalling potential economic growth.
The Professor of Transportation advocated for the creation of a unified Ministry of Transportation to oversee all transport modes, streamlining planning and development efforts. He also called for the establishment of a dedicated road agency to manage Nigeria’s roads, which are often left in disrepair due to uncoordinated control by local governments and unions.
Commending Lagos State’s progress in transportation policy, particularly under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Professor Odewumi encouraged other states to adopt similar policies. He further urged Lagos to explore local innovations, such as using plastic waste in road repairs, which could reduce reliance on foreign contractors and create job opportunities.
In his conclusion, Professor Odewumi emphasized that without significant reform, Nigeria’s transportation system would continue to hinder economic growth. He stressed the importance of a coordinated and integrated approach to transportation, calling it essential for national progress.
