Nigeria’s Land Transport Policy Gets Federal Government’s Nod

Mary Nnah

The Federal Government has given its official nod to the National Land Transport Policy, a long-awaited framework designed to transform Nigeria’s transportation sector. This monumental decision marks a significant shift towards a safer, more efficient, and people-centered mobility system.
The Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA) played a pivotal role in advocating for this policy, and their tireless efforts have finally paid off. With this policy in place, Nigeria is poised to revolutionize its transportation landscape, empowering communities and driving economic growth.

The breakthrough was formally announced during a virtual press briefing by the National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Chizoba Anyika, who revealed that the National Executive Council (NEC) approved the policy on July 31st, 2025, effectively ending decades of stalled attempts and fragmented initiatives.

In a statement issued by CIOTA’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr. (Mrs.) Chizoba Anyika, the Institute described the approval as a “bright torch of hope” ignited by the outcomes of the 7th National Conference of CIOTA held in Abuja. She emphasised that the intellectual labour invested by transport professionals, policy advocates, and development partners over the years has now yielded a concrete national asset.

Dr. Chizoba Anyika speaking with evident elation, declared: “Let the media tell it to the world from the mountain top that Nigeria now has a Transportation Policy.” His authority to make the announcement was conveyed by the Minister of Transportation, Sen. Sa’id Ahmed Alkali, during the conference.

The 7th CIOTA Conference attended by more than 450 delegates at the NICON Luxury Hotel—drew participation from former and serving leaders of the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Police, Vehicle Inspection Offices, the military, paramilitary agencies, traditional rulers, and industry professionals. Discussions strongly reiterated the necessity of an integrated, multimodal, and fully professionalised transport management system, harmonised with global best practices.

CIOTA President Dr. Segun Obayendo commended the media for its expansive coverage of CIOTA’s reform agenda. He stressed that professionalisation remains the bedrock upon which Nigeria can build a lucrative, seamless, and sustainably managed transport sector capable of driving economic diversification. According to him, a modern transport ecosystem would greatly enhance employment opportunities and revenue performance across the country.

Dr. Obayendo further disclosed the strengthening partnership between CIOTA and ALGON—the association representing all 774 local government councils. Through this collaboration, a new administrative structure is expected to emerge where each local government will appoint a Supervisory Councillor for Transport. This innovation aims to ensure that transport management becomes community-focused, enabling even the most remote settlements to benefit from a structured, standardised mobility framework.

He maintained that once professionalisation deepens across all levels, achieving the ₦1 trillion economic target of the current administration will become significantly more attainable.

With the Land Transport Policy now approved, Nigeria stands at the dawn of a transformative era. CIOTA’s leadership and persistent advocacy have delivered a national platform capable of reshaping mobility, empowering communities, and reinforcing the country’s economic ambitions. The responsibility now lies in effective implementation one that will determine how quickly the vision of a dignified, seamless, and globally competitive transport system becomes reality.