Managing Director of Primero Transport Services and Chairman of the Nigeria Transport Infrastructure Summit 2025, Mr. Fola Tinubu, has called for deeper collaboration between the government and the private sector to unlock Nigeria’s full transport potential.
Tinubu made the call in his opening address at the 2025 summit held at Providence Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos. He said that sustainable transport growth depends on coordinated action and shared commitment from both the public and private sector.
“It’s a real pleasure to welcome you all to this important gathering,” he said. “We are here to shape the future of transportation in our country.”
He commended the organisers, JustAlive Communications Limited, for providing a timely platform that brings together aviation, maritime, rail, and road stakeholders. According to him, this inclusive approach is essential to build a transport system that supports trade, growth, and innovation.
Tinubu stressed that transportation is not just about mobility but national development. He said the private sector must play a central role in modernising infrastructure and bridging gaps that limit efficiency.
“Transportation is about connecting people, driving trade, and fueling industries. No economy can thrive without efficient transport,” he said.
He acknowledged that Nigeria’s transport infrastructure faces many challenges. Roads are overstretched, rail networks remain underdeveloped, while airports and seaports require urgent upgrades. However, Tinubu said these challenges present significant opportunities for private sector participation and strategic partnerships.
“Our roads are under pressure, our ports and airports need upgrades, and our waterways remain underutilised,” he said. “Within these challenges lie tremendous opportunities.”
Themed “Nigeria’s Transport Infrastructure: Innovation for a Sustainable Future,” the summit focuses on transforming obstacles into opportunities. Tinubu urged participants to adopt innovative thinking and invest in technology-driven mobility systems that support sustainability and national growth.
He cited examples such as electric buses, smart ticketing, intelligent traffic management, and cleaner energy transport options already driving change globally. He said Nigeria possesses the creativity and technical know-how to adopt these innovations, but only if the private sector works closely with policymakers and development agencies.
At Primero Transport Services, Tinubu said innovation and discipline have shown that sustainable systems can thrive in Nigeria. He emphasised that no single company or agency can drive the transformation alone without a clear policy direction and supportive investment climate.
“At Primero, we’ve seen what’s possible when innovation meets commitment. But government and industry must share responsibility,” he stated.
Tinubu said the private sector’s involvement is not limited to funding but extends to knowledge transfer, efficient management, and accountability. He called for transparent frameworks that allow long-term investment in road transport, rail development, and urban mobility projects.
He also urged development partners to strengthen public–private engagement models to enhance infrastructure financing and maintenance standards. According to him, collaboration ensures continuity of projects beyond political cycles and fosters investor confidence.
“What we need is collaboration between government, the private sector, and development partners to make it happen,” Tinubu added.
Tinubu encouraged participants to engage openly, share insights, and challenge outdated practices. He said the summit must end with clear, actionable recommendations that strengthen Nigeria’s transport ecosystem.
He concluded with a message of optimism and responsibility.
“The future of Nigeria’s transport sector is not written yet,” he said. “We are the ones who will write it.”
The Nigeria Transport Infrastructure Summit 2025 continues with discussions on sustainable mobility, innovation, and funding mechanisms for infrastructure renewal. Participants include top executives from transport firms, policymakers, regulators, and investors committed to advancing the nation’s transport landscape.
