The Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA), Lagos State University (LASU) Chapter, in partnership with the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management, hosted a one-day conference and induction ceremony at Lagos State University.
The event, with the theme: “Safety and Security in the Transportation Sector: The Way Forward,” brought together professionals, government officials, academics, students, and military representatives to discuss pressing issues in the transportation sector and welcome new members into the institute.
The President and Chairman of Council of CIOTA, Prince Dr Segun Ochuko Obayendo, called for practical action across the sector.
He urged participants to become intentional about solving transportation problems. “This should not be just another gathering. We must begin to take deliberate steps within our own spaces. Even if we can’t do everything collectively, we can each make a difference,” he said.
Obayendo also criticised the current state of Nigeria’s road transport system, calling it disorganised and unfit for the 21st Century.
Mr Olasunkanmi Ejiowuro who represented the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, delivered a goodwill message, stressing the need for new commitment and cooperation among stakeholders. “The theme is both timely and relevant. Strategic leadership and clear policies are the backbone of a sustainable transport system. We must all work together to make our cities safer and better connected,” he said.
Chairman of the CIOTA Lagos Chapter, Prince Dr Taiwo Olufemi Salam, described the transport sector as the lifeblood of any economy. “Without safety and security, it’s like living in the rain. This conference featured conversations that can challenge our thinking, educate us, and lead to actionable, sustainable solutions,” he said. He also encouraged the new inductees to embrace professionalism and uphold the values of the institute.
The event was chaired by the Oniba of Iba Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Sulaimon Adeshina Raji Ashade, who was represented by Alhaji Bamgbose Oluseyi. The Vice Chancellor of LASU, Prof Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, was represented by Prof Charles, Dean of the School of Transport.
Comrade Adekunle Ajibade, Chairman of CIOTA Ogun State, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the Southwest Chairman, reaffirming the institute’s commitment to improving transportation across the region through collaboration and advocacy.
Speaking in an interview, CIOTA Registrar, Rasheed Ayelabegan, explained that the event was designed with three main goals: to induct students into CIOTA under the Next Gen initiative, to strengthen collaboration with the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management (NACOLM), and to host the first induction of the year in Lagos to accommodate the high number of new members from the Southwest region.
“We brought the programme to LASU to inspire young people early and support their journey into professional transport management. It’s also a chance to deepen our existing collaborations,” he said.
Addressing CIOTA’s broader role in the sector, Dr Obayendo said the institute plays an active role in policy and regulation. “We engage with various government agencies. The National Assembly has empowered us to advocate, train, certify, and influence policy. But the biggest issue remains the lack of professionalism in the sector,” he added.
The event concluded with the formal induction of new student and professional members into CIOTA, marking the beginning of their journey in contributing to a safer, more organised, and more professional transport industry in Nigeria.
