Experts have called for the deployment of SMART planning in optimizing the nation’s Integrated Transport System to address the multifaceted challenges caused by inefficient transportation systems.
SMART plans are – specific, measurable, acceptable, realistic and time-bound; such that they guide the policy and infrastructural projections of various transport modes in the country.
The Managing Director, Niger-Benue Transport Company (NBTC), Mrs. Seyi Oluyede stressed this while speaking at a virtual summit organized by Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS) on Tuesday.
At the breakfast meeting themed; “Economic Impact of an Integrated Transport System,” Oluyede argued that SMART planning would also enable Nigeria maximize its Inland Water Transport (IWT) potentials.
Oluyede noted that SMART plans should cover areas such as: water way infrastructure investment and implementation scheme, fleet modernisation investment scheme which should be through Public Private Partnership (PPP).
The Guest Speaker included financing plan for both schemes, taking into account; sources of finance, appropriate fiscal and taxation policy, effective user, charge system, national revenues allocation and collection system and private sector involvement.
“The role and economic benefits of IWT in global logistics cannot be overemphasised, especially in the export market, pertaining to the global trade for grains and other commodities.”
“An efficient IWT is an economic engine wheel. Finally, one barge on the inland waterways can move as many as 70 tractor trailers or 16 train cars. Nigeria needs to generate the cargo/through puts and be intentional about the development of the IWT system,” she said.
Using China and Netherlands as an examples, she noted that the two countries were able to achieve effective IWT usage because they invested in infrastructure, developed and implemented policies to aid the system.
Oluyede said the opportunities inherent in enhancing IWT in Nigeria are enormous, listing some as to provide an excellent hinterland connection for seaport, cost efficiency, reduce congestion, stimulate international and regional domestic trade and others.
She said listed some of the challenges affecting Nigeria as lack of proper awareness, hydropower utilisation, upstream, security threats and equipment standardisation.
In his welcome address, the President of NCS, Alhaji Aminu Umar, noted that there is a pressing need for a cohesive and efficient transportation network that harmonises various modes of transportation.
Umar, who was represented by the Director General, NCS, Mrs. Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike, observed that such integration not only streamlines logistics but also reduces operational costs.
The NCS boss equally observed that enhanced connectivity will stimulates investment opportunities across industries in the country.
“Our nation’s economic development hinges significantly on our ability to synchronise these transportation networks, optimising their capabilities to support trade, bolster commerce, and drive socio-economic progress.”
“The expansion and modernisation of our ports, the improvement of intermodal connectivity, and the adoption of innovative technologies are pivotal steps towards achieving this integrated system,” he said.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Multimix Academy, Mrs. Oluchi Okafor lamented that most Nigerian workers and investors in the logistics and supply chain didn’t have a planned entry into the sector.
According to her, the haphazard entry into the industry and affiliated businesses negatively impacts their work culture, efficiency and professionalism.
Oluchi, however, expressed delight at the recent introduction of cargo rails with Lagos-Ibadan trip in November, stating that it would enhance supply-chain, save costs and preserve the roads.
The event was also attended by several transport veterans including; the Chairperson, Sealink Implementation Committee, Mrs. Dabney Shall-Holma; Head of Department, School of Transport and Logistics, Lagos State University, Dr. (Mrs.) Ogochukwu Ugboma; Acting Head of Department, Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Dr. Ibeawuchi Nze; among others.