The Ogun State Commissioner for Transportation and Chairman of the Nigeria Transportation Commissioners Forum (NTCF), Engr. Gbenga Dairo, has called on state governments across the country to urgently accelerate the implementation of urban mobility projects in line with the National Urban Mobility Program (NUMP).
Speaking after the NUMP stakeholders’ forum held in Abuja over the weekend, Engr. Dairo warned that Nigeria’s rapidly growing urban population poses a serious threat to already strained transport systems. He noted that projections show the country’s urban population will exceed 264 million by 2050, a development that demands immediate and coordinated action.
According to him, congestion in major cities is costing commuters up to four hours daily, while transportation expenses are consuming a disproportionate share of income for low-income households. He stressed that without swift intervention, mobility challenges could worsen social and economic inequalities.
The forum attracted transportation commissioners from various states, federal government representatives, and development partners. The World Bank Country Director, Mathew Vergis, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting Nigeria through funding, technical assistance, and advisory services. Similarly, the Director General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Dr. Abdulateef Shittu, emphasized the importance of clear financing models, sustainable maintenance plans, and effective intergovernmental coordination.
As part of key resolutions, the NTCF directed states to submit “shovel-ready” projects for Phase 1 investment under NUMP and to align existing Nigeria Public Transportation Program (NPTP) assets—such as transport terminals, rail infrastructure, and CNG facilities—for optimal impact. States yet to complete their NUMP engagement surveys were also instructed to do so without delay.
The meeting featured robust participation from several states, with Cross River, the Federal Capital Territory, Kaduna, and Lagos presenting initiatives that will help shape the next phase of the program.
In his closing remarks, Engr. Dairo urged all states to move swiftly, noting that timely action, coupled with international collaboration, is critical to building sustainable, inclusive, and efficient urban transport systems capable of meeting Nigeria’s future demands.
