Investing in resilient transport infrastructure is crucial for unlocking Nigeria’s economic growth and improving the standard of living by enhancing connectivity, access to markets, and services. Dr. Mudasiru Bola, National Secretary General of the Nigerian Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE), said.

He made this assertion at the 2024 Annual General Meeting and the inauguration of Engr. Ismail Olasunkanmi Olatinwa as the third Chairman of the Ibadan chapter of NIHTE.

Delivering his keynote paper titled “Resilient Transportation Infrastructure: Best Practice for Urban and Rural Mobility,” Dr. Bola emphasized the importance of integrated public transportation systems, electric mobility, and fostering intergovernmental cooperation to address Nigeria’s transport infrastructure challenges.

“Resilient transportation infrastructure is essential for ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable movement of people and goods across both urban and rural areas in Nigeria,” he noted, further aligning these goals with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

According to Dr. Bola, resilient infrastructure will play a critical role in supporting urban mobility through integrated public transportation systems, smart traffic management, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and dedicated cycling lanes.

He highlighted that rural mobility should focus on improving rural road connectivity, enhancing access to essential services, and creating inclusive, accessible transport systems for all populations, including those with disabilities.

The integration of technology, such as mobile apps for transport information, was also recommended to improve transportation access and efficiency.

Nigeria’s transport infrastructure faces significant obstacles, especially in rural areas where inadequate and poorly maintained roads hinder agricultural productivity and socio-economic development.

“Approximately 95% of agricultural freight is transported by road, yet only 30% of rural roads are all-season, causing accessibility issues for rural communities,” Dr. Bola said.

The overreliance on road networks for passenger and freight movement is straining the system, leaving the country vulnerable to economic disruption and hampered development.

Dr. Bola stressed the importance of electric mobility as an emerging opportunity to create sustainable transport solutions.

“Investment in electric vehicles and associated infrastructure is essential for reducing emissions and fostering climate-resilient development in both urban and rural settings,” he explained, calling for strategic investment in this sector to address Nigeria’s long-term mobility challenges.

He recommended a comprehensive approach to addressing Nigeria’s transport issues, advocating for collaboration between engineers, policymakers, and stakeholders to integrate climate resilience and inclusivity into transport planning.

He also urged the adoption of innovative technologies, community engagement, and sustainable funding models, including public-private partnerships and user-based revenue models such as fuel taxes and congestion pricing.

Dr. Bola called on the government to prioritize rural road development and maintenance, promote electric mobility, and enhance public transport systems that cater to vulnerable populations.

These initiatives, he argued, would not only reduce emissions but also support climate-resilient development.

Quoting Prof. Danladi Matawal, former Director-General of the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), Dr. Bola reminded the audience that Nigeria requires an additional 200,000 kilometers of roads to join the ranks of the world’s top 20 developed countries.

He stressed that a comprehensive approach is necessary, involving resilient infrastructure investment, sustainable transport policy development, and community participation.

Dr. Bola concluded by aligning these transport goals with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and others. “By delivering safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems, we can significantly contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic development and global competitiveness,” he affirmed.