The Chief Executive Officer of Widescope Group, Dr. Segun Musa, has lauded the Federal Government’s newly introduced 10-year transport policy, describing it as a vital step toward revitalising Nigeria’s economy through improved infrastructure and connectivity. Highlighting the economic impact, Dr. Musa noted that the transportation sector accounts for nearly 3% of Nigeria’s GDP, and with the policy’s successful implementation, it is projected to significantly boost job creation and economic activity.
During a recent media briefing, Dr. Musa emphasised the critical role of transportation in national development, stating that the success of any economy hinges on an efficient and well-coordinated transport system.
“Transportation is the motive force behind the economy of any country. If you get the transport system right, the economy will follow. It is the starting point for meaningful development,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of developing and integrating all modes of transportation, including roads, rail, pipelines, and waterways, to ensure they function in synergy. According to him, the lack of coordination among these modes creates inefficiencies and hinders national progress. For example, in Rotterdam, coordinated rail-port operations have significantly reduced dwell times for containers, showcasing how integrated systems can enhance efficiency. This illustrates the tangible benefits that can arise from effective multimodal synergy.
Dr. Musa urged the government to give equal priority to all transport corridors, including land roads and inland waterways, which he described as crucial yet often neglected.
“When we talk about roads, we must think beyond highways. Waterways, pipeline routes, and other transport infrastructure must be developed alongside. They must complement each other to boost efficiency and economic activity,” he noted. “There must be a focus on both infrastructure development and consistent maintenance.”
Particularly concerned about the state of Nigeria’s waterways, Musa emphasised the importance of viewing waterway safety through a comprehensive ‘defence-in-depth‘ approach. This involves preventing incidents through rigorous safety measures, trapping potential hazards before they escalate, and mitigating the effects of any incidents that do occur. He called for regular maintenance and the presence of rescue and security teams to build public confidence in water transport. Implementing these layered safety strategies would not only protect lives but also establish a strong safety culture in the sector.
“Without proper maintenance, accidents will persist on our waterways. The government must ensure safety protocols are in place, rescue teams are available, and security is guaranteed. These are the things that give citizens the confidence to use the waterways,” he warned.
He further advised that all three tiers of government, federal, state, and local, collaborate effectively to implement the transport policy, emphasising the necessity of delineating specific roles within the transport value chain. For a cohesive implementation, federal authorities could focus on funding and establishing national framework policies, state governments might be responsible for infrastructure development and roadside maintenance, while local authorities could oversee the day-to-day operations and management of transport services. This clear delineation of responsibilities ensures no single government arm bears the full burden and transforms a broad appeal into an actionable roadmap.
A well-coordinated transport network is essential for trade, mobility, and regional integration. With the right policies and partnerships in place, transportation can truly become the engine that drives Nigeria’s economic transformation. However, it is critical to note that every year of delay in implementing these changes could cost Nigeria millions in lost trade opportunities and economic growth potential. Highlighting the cost of inertia underscores the urgency for immediate action and coordinated efforts from all stakeholders to realise these transformative goals.