Intermodal transportation integration key to maritime growth – Oyetola

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has stressed the need for the integration of intermodal transportation to unlock the potential of the country’s maritime sector.

Oyetola said this at the maiden edition of Nigeria Transport Summit organised by the Transportation Correspondents Association of Nigeria (TCAN), on Thursday, in Lagos.

The summit had the theme: “Internodal Transport: Prospects and Challenges.”

Oyetola was represented at the event by Mr Yusuf Muhammad, the Director of General Service, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

He said that streamlining transport modes was key to optimising movement of goods and services.

According to him, linking of the ports with roads, rails, and inland waterways was key to optimising the movement of goods and enhancing trade.

“By streamlining these transport modes, we can reduce delays, cut down logistics costs, and make our ports more competitive in the global market.

“Our vision is to develop a seamless transport system where goods can flow smoothly between ships, trucks, and trains, boosting trade and economic growth.

“Intermodal transportation also aligns with our broader objective of reducing congestion, lowering carbon emissions, and enhancing the overall efficiency of our logistics chain,” he said.

Oyetola added that the ministry had embarked on several initiatives aimed at unlocking the vast potential of the nation’s marine resources.

“We have developed a comprehensive policy framework to enhance maritime safety, boost investment in port infrastructure, and promote sustainable fishing practice.

“The ministry has also established the National Strategy on Blue Economy which is aimed at regulating and promoting sustainable use of our marine resources,” he said.

He noted that the strategy was validated with the support and collaboration of the InterAfrican Bureau For Animal Resources and the Kingdom of Norway.

According to Oyetola, the strategy document sets the groundwork for effective governance, ensuring that our blue economy oceans remain a source of wealth for future generations.

“We are actively engaging with international partners to enhance our maritime capabilities.

“Collaborative efforts with countries that excel in marine technology will allow us to adopt best practices and leverage cutting-edge technologies for resource management.

“As we pursue these ambitious goals, the role of the media cannot be overstated. Transportation correspondents, you serve as vital conduits of information, helping to shape public perception and understanding of marine issues.

“Your reporting raises awareness about the importance of sustainable practices and the need for robust investment in our maritime infrastructure,” he said.

He called on stakeholders, government, private sector, and civil society, to join hands in realising the vision for a thriving blue economy.

“Let us work collaboratively to build resilient coastal communities, invest in research and innovation, and promote sustainable practices that benefit both people and the planet,” he said.

He emphasised that the country’s oceans are not just a resource but a heritage for economic growth and development.

Oyetola called for collaborative responsibility to protect and nurture the country’s ocean for future generation.

Earlier, Mr Yinka Aderibigbe, chairman, TCAN, said that if the country do not open the transport space, the economy would not grow.

Aderibigbe noted that the summit was to deepen the conversation of transportation in Nigeria, and proffer solutions that would ensure the growth of the sector.