CIoTA Nigeria Executive Council Holds Strategic Retreat, Unveils Roadmap for Institutional Advancement

Mary Nnah

The National Executive Council of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration (CIoTA) Nigeria has concluded a landmark strategic retreat held in Abuja, aimed at repositioning the Institute for greater professional impact and national relevance.

A press release, signed by the National Publicity Secretary, National Institute of Transport Administration, Dr. Chizoba Anyika, FinsTA, noted that, the high-level hybrid session led by its President and Chairman, Governing Council, Prince Segun Ochuko Obayendo, FinsTA, brought together key national officers both in person and remotely to deliberate on critical reforms necessary to strengthen CIoTA’s governance, operational framework, and member value proposition.

In his opening address, Prince Obayendo challenged the council to build an institution anchored on purpose and systems rather than individual personalities. “Our focus must be on defining CIoTA by its professional mission, not by personalities,” he stated, setting a transformative agenda for the retreat. He stressed the urgent need to professionalize governance, document standard operating procedures, and invest in a Secretariat equipped with modern competencies to drive sustainable growth.

The retreat was attended in person by the National Secretary, Mazi Philips E. Okoronkwo; National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Mrs. Chizoba C. Anyika; National Auditor, Aminu Mukhtar, Dan Musa; National Treasurer, Capt. Elei Green Igbogi; National Financial Secretary, Felicia Mfon Uki, National Provost, Ami Ganiyu and the Registrar, Mr. Rasheed Ayelabegan. Additional executive council members joined the proceedings remotely via Zoom, ensuring full quorum and inclusive participation.

The deliberations resulted in several key resolutions. A major outcome was the commitment to professionalize CIoTA’s governance and operations through the development of detailed policy manuals, a robust compliance system, and a structured points-based framework for member progression. To ensure institutional continuity and strategic guidance, the council approved the establishment of a College of Elders/Fellows Forum.

In a significant move to enhance national engagement, the Institute announced that the 2026 National Transport Conference, Annual General Meeting, and Swearing-in Ceremony will be held in Lagos State. This initiates a new rotational model for the flagship event, with future editions planned for other strategic hubs. Furthermore, to improve membership services, CONTRANSP was formally authorized as the Institute’s official registration partner.

The retreat also advanced plans to revitalize CIoTA’s International Program, clarify fellowship criteria, and deepen engagement with accredited training centers nationwide. These initiatives will be supported by a strengthened national secretariat, envisioned as a centre of excellence.

The executive council affirmed that these reforms are essential to elevate CIoTA’s recognition, visibility, and capacity to influence transport policy and practice in Nigeria. The retreat concluded with a renewed commitment to implement the resolutions diligently, reinforcing CIoTA’s role as the apex professional body for transport administration in the country.