The Managing Director of Primero Transport Services, Mr Fola Tinubu, has called for a new era of innovation, collaboration, and strategic investment in Nigeria’s transport system, describing the sector as central to the nation’s economic transformation.
Mr Tinubu made this assertion while delivering his opening address as Chairman at the Nigeria Transport Infrastructure Summit 2025, held on Wednesday at the Providence Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos. The event, organised by JustAlive Communications Limited, brought together leading voices from the aviation, maritime, rail, and road transport sectors, along with policymakers, investors, and innovators.
In his remarks, Tinubu underscored the importance of the summit as a platform to reimagine Nigeria’s transport future and develop actionable strategies for sustainable development.
“It’s a real pleasure to welcome you all to this important gathering,” he began. “Transportation is not just about moving people or goods from one point to another — it’s about connecting communities, driving trade, supporting industries, and powering national growth. Without an efficient transport system, no economy can truly thrive.”
Highlighting the summit’s theme, “Nigeria’s Transport Infrastructure: Innovation for a Sustainable Future,” Tinubu said the time had come for stakeholders to rethink existing systems, adopt technology-driven solutions, and create infrastructure capable of meeting the demands of a modern economy.
He noted that Nigeria’s transport landscape continues to face daunting challenges – from deteriorating road networks and incomplete rail systems to congested ports, ageing airports, and underutilised waterways. Yet, he maintained, these difficulties also represent untapped opportunities for progress.
“Our roads are under pressure, our rail network is still developing, our ports and airports need upgrades, and our waterways remain underutilised,” Tinubu stated. “But within these challenges lie tremendous opportunities. What we must do now is turn those challenges into opportunities through innovation and collaboration.”
Tinubu emphasised that the world is experiencing a transport revolution powered by electric vehicles, smart ticketing, intelligent traffic control, and clean energy. He urged Nigerian stakeholders to take decisive steps toward embracing similar advancements, leveraging the nation’s youthful population and technological creativity.
“All over the world, technology is transforming transportation,” he said. “Here in Nigeria, we have the talent and creativity to do the same. What we need is strong collaboration between government, the private sector, and development partners to make it happen.”
Drawing on the experience of Primero Transport Services, the operator of Lagos’ pioneering Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, Tinubu shared that success in the transport sector requires more than ambition – it demands policy alignment, long-term planning, and sustained partnership.
“At Primero, we’ve seen what’s possible when innovation meets commitment,” he explained. “However, no single company or government agency can do it alone. It takes partnership, policy support, and a shared vision to build a truly integrated and sustainable transport system.”
As discussions at the summit commenced, Tinubu encouraged participants to engage constructively and challenge outdated approaches. He urged stakeholders to focus on implementable outcomes rather than rhetoric.
“Let’s engage openly, share ideas, and challenge old ways of thinking. Most importantly, let’s leave this summit with practical steps we can take to make a real difference. The future of Nigeria’s transport sector is not yet written – we are the ones who will write it.”
He concluded by commending the organisers, sponsors, and delegates for their dedication to improving Nigeria’s transport sector and contributing to national development.
“This summit represents more than dialogue – it’s a call to action,” Tinubu said. “Together, we can build a more efficient, innovative, and connected Nigeria. Let’s make this summit count.”
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