by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has asserted that, “As a nation and, particularly, in the North Central region, we are confronted with the urgent need to revamp our transportation systems – whether by road, rail, air, or waterways – in order to unlock the vast economic potential that lies within our states and across the country.”
The governor disclosed this, while declaring open of a 3 days’ ‘North Central Zonal Transport Conference’ organised by The Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIoTA), in collaboration with the Plateau State Government, on Wednesday at Crispan Hotel Jos.
The Conference was themed, ‘Transforming Transport Infrastructure for Sustainable economic Development of Nigeria.’
The governor, who was represented by the Head of Civil Service, Stephen Pam Godongs, said, “The transformation of transport infrastructure in Plateau State is not just a matter of development – it is a catalyst for peace, integration, economic prosperity, and job creation. A well-connected Plateau is a prosperous Plateau.
“We understand that no economy can thrive without a robust transport network. Efficient logistics drive down the cost of goods, connect markets, boost tourism, facilitate trade, and encourage investments. Therefore, we are committed to prioritizing road rehabilitation, exploring rail linkages, and modernizing our urban and rural transport systems,” he disclosed.
The governor stressed thus: “However, we know we cannot walk this journey alone; that is why gatherings like this are crucial. The expertise and recommendations that will emerge from this conference can inform policy, strengthen inter-state collaborations, and guide implementation strategies at both state and regional levels.”
While commending CIoTA for consistently championing professionalism and policy advocacy in Nigeria’s transport sector, Governor Mutfwang noted that, “Your role in shaping discourse around national development through the lens of transport administration is commendable, and we are proud to host this event here in Jos.
“As you deliberate over the course of this conference, I urge you to be bold, innovative, and practical in your recommendations. Let us move from merely diagnosing the challenges to proffering sustainable – implementable solutions that will truly transform our transport landscape.”
He said, “Plateau State remains open for partnerships and investment. We invite CIoTA and all stakeholders to work with us in building a transport ecosystem that reflects the dreams of a modern, inclusive, and economically-vibrant Nigeria.”
Speaking earlier, the State’s Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Jatau Davou Gyang, said, the presence affirms the relevance of the transport and logistics sector in the socio-economic development of not just Plateau State, but the entire nation.
“The theme of this conference resonates deeply with our current realities. As the global economy evolves, so too must our transport systems – to become more inclusive, integrated, efficient, and sustainable. Conferences like this serve as a platform for sharing innovations, policy frameworks, and collaborative strategies to elevate transport administration and infrastructure development,” Hon. Gyang noted.
On Urban Transport Reform: Through the Plateau Express Service Limited, he explained that, “We have a modernized intra-city transport. Plans are underway to introduce mass transit buses in across the other 15 Local Governments of the state for subsidized transportation and to promote alternative, cleaner transport options.”
Partnership with the Private Sector
The Commissioner noted that, Plateau State Government, under Governor Mutfwang, has shown a strong commitment to public-private partnerships (PPPs), in order to attract investment into the transport sector. This includes terminal development, haulage systems, and intercity bus parks.
Transport Policy and Institutional Strengthening
“With the recent signing of the National Transport Policy by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we are currently working on the Plateau State Transport Policy to align it with contemporary realities and national guidelines.
“A robust and harmonized framework will ensure proper regulation, licensing, safety enforcement, and capacity development for transport operators across the state,” he said.
He explained that, they are exploring the introduction of Smart Ticketing systems, Fleet Tracking technologies, and improved data collection tools to enhance planning and accountability in the transport sector, as part of their modernization efforts.
“Also, the Revival of the Jos Metropolitan Mass Train Services is another laudable attainment by the current administration, in conjunction with the Nigerian Railway Corporation,” he added.
The Commissioner further stated that, “The Chartered Institute of Transport Administrators (CIoTA) remains a critical stakeholder in driving these reforms. Your role in professionalizing the sector, enforcing ethical standards, and building capacity cannot be overemphasized.”
Also speaking, Prince Dr. Segun Ochuko Obayendo, President/Chairman of CTN said, “The Chattered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria is the leading and premier chartered professional transport body in Nigeria providing training, membership and certification of Transport professionals.”
He revealed that, it was first established in Great Britain, United Kingdom, in 1944 as a professional body dedicated to promoting education to serve the emerging requirements of Transport Administration.