Stakeholders in the transportation sector emphasize the importance of the government addressing energy challenges directly and prioritizing the adoption of alternative energy technologies to transform Nigeria’s transportation sector.
Recently, the minister of Transportation Sen Said Alkali announced at the executive session of the 18th National Council on Transportation (NCT) held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.Under the theme: “Embracing Innovations and Technologies for Suitable Transportation: Tackling the Energy Challenges.” That Federal Government is gearing up to revolutionize transportation and combat energy challenges by embracing alternative energy technologies.
The session emphasized the crucial role of innovation in alleviating energy challenges and combating climate change. Alkali stressed the urgency of transitioning away from fossil fuels due to their environmental and socio-economic impact.
He said, “It is a known fact that the transportation sector is a major culprit of environmental pollution because of its over-dependence on fossil fuel and non-availability of alternative energy that has exerted pressure on demand for energy and raised broader environmental and socio-economic issues such as environmental pollution; fuel price volatility; economic sabotage among other.
“In view of the energy demand of transportation, countries at the recently concluded World Climate Action Summit (WCAS) of the 28th Conference of Parties (COP 28), committed to creating a sustainable future for coming generations by accelerating innovation and facilitating the deployment of renewable energy, clean technology and other green alternatives.”
Proposing a multifaceted approach, the Minister outlined plans to modernize transportation systems, prioritize innovative technologies, and foster collaboration among stakeholders.
He also emphasized the importance of budgetary allocation, private sector investment, and education campaigns to facilitate technology adoption.
Additionally, Minister advocated for the utilization of alternative energy transport technologies and the establishment of standards to benefit all stakeholders. Ongoing initiatives, including the establishment of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Conversion Centre in Abuja and the promotion of electric and autonomous vehicles, were highlighted.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State commended the session’s efforts in promoting environmentally and economically friendly transportation solutions. The event concluded with the inauguration of the Forum of Commissioners of Transportation, chaired by Engineer Gbenga Dairo, the Ogun Commissioner of Transportation.
The Governor noted that the theme of the conference indicated that the sector was fully in line with current challenges, realities and limitations and ready to proffer suitable solutions.
In summary, the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing transportation challenges through alternative energy technologies signals a significant stride towards a sustainable and efficient transportation system in Nigeria.
