Sanwo-Olu, Ministers lead 2026 national transport transformation talks in Lagos

Michael Olumide

Nigeria’s transport sector is set for a transformative dialogue as the Global Transport Policy (GTP) Annual Multimodal Roundtable convenes at the Lagos Marriott Hotel Ikeja.

The high-level forum, themed “Transforming Nigeria’s transport system: Integrating solutions for safety, efficiency, and sustainability”, will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and regional stakeholders to chart a forward-looking path for the nation’s transport networks.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alongside federal ministers, senior officials, and the President of Nigeria, is expected to lead discussions that aim to address the critical challenges facing the sector.

The roundtable has, over the past three years, emerged as a key platform for policy dialogue, facilitating collaboration between government agencies, private sector actors, and regional bodies such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

As Nigeria seeks to capitalize on opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and boost domestic productivity, the need for an integrated, efficient, and sustainable transport system has become increasingly urgent.

Logistics inefficiencies currently inflate distribution costs to between 20 and 30 per cent of the value of goods, well above the global benchmark of 8 to 11 per cent.

In addition, only about 60 per cent of Nigerian communities have access to basic road infrastructure, restricting market access and economic inclusion.

Speaking ahead of the event, GTP Chief Operating Officer Onoruoiza Onuchi highlighted the importance of institutional coordination and strategic planning. “Nigeria’s competitiveness depends on how efficiently we move people and goods,” he said.

“This roundtable will bring together public and private sector leaders to develop coordinated strategies—from bonded multimodal corridors to the establishment of a National Multimodal Logistics Council—unlocking safer, greener, and more efficient transport systems.”

The programme features expert panel discussions on sector reform, investment in transport infrastructure, workforce development, integrated mobility systems, safe and smart transport, and low-carbon solutions, including electric vehicles. Government officials, transport veterans, and private-sector leaders will provide insights on policy, technology, and infrastructure development, while participants will examine public-private partnership models and the deployment of intelligent transport systems.

Recent policy initiatives, such as the National Land Transport Policy, will also form a central focus of discussions, including accelerating corridor development, streamlining customs and regulatory processes, and lowering logistics costs for businesses and consumers.

Organisers have invited corporate partners, development agencies, transport operators, civil society groups, and the media to ensure that discussions translate into actionable outcomes that will benefit Lagos and Nigeria at large.

The event promises to be a defining moment in the country’s journey toward a modern, safe, and sustainable transport ecosystem.