ATACA Holds 4th Annual Seminar, Focuses on Sustainable Transportation in Nigeria
Alex Joseph
The Abuja Transport and Aviation Correspondents Association (ATACA) held its 4th annual seminar on October 3, 2024, at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja. The event themed “Harnessing the Aviation, Railway, Marine and Blue Economy sectors for Sustainable Transportation in Nigeria” brought together stakeholders in the transportation industry.
Senator Alkali who was represented by the Special Assistant Technical, Dr Shuaib Danwaka delivered a keynote address, congratulating ATACA on choosing a theme that aligns with national and global realities, recognizing transportation as a key driver of economic growth. He expressed hope that the workshop would address critical issues hindering the effectiveness of land, air, and marine transportation in Nigeria.
Said Alkali emphasised on Sustainable Transportation, Harnessing aviation, railway, marine, and blue economy sectors for sustainable transportation in Nigeria.
He highlighted the present administration’s focus on transportation as a key driver of economic growth.
The Minister stressed the importance of professional and diligent reporting to inform Nigerians about the present administration’s transformative agenda. He highlighted the Federal Ministry of Transportation’s commitment to supporting ATACA’s operations, provided they uphold transparent journalism.
Alkali concluded by wishing the event success and urging participants to strengthen the Association for better service to the nation and humanity.
In his presentation, the keynote Speaker Dr Emeka Okengwu advocated for increased cargo and commodity transport infrastructure to safe losses incurred in perishable goods and reducing cost of logistics. He said the different modes transport should be strategically designed to other sectors
He informed that through Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), Nigeria can make use it’s 853 km Coastline to generate about 200000 watts of electricity. “But when we talk of Marine or Blue Economy our minds will be on fish or rural water transport” he stated.
He urged Journalists to ask critical questions at the right time and the right place, eg How can the Aviation support the rail industry, Marine and Land transportation? What other infrastructure can be in line with all modes of transportation, like storage?
Also speaking, Arc. Bob Achanya, President, Nigeria Bangladesh Business Technology Forum and the Ajaokuta Chamber of Commerce who said the aviation, railway, and marine sectors, when interconnected efficiently, create a seamless and resilient transportation network, he added that the network enhances connectivity, reduces transportation costs, and boosts the overall efficiency of the country’s logistics and supply chain systems.
He further noted that the integration of multimodal transportation systems within Nigeria’s emerging blue economy presents a unique opportunity to foster sustainable economic growth, adding that, “by leveraging the strengths of our aviation, road, railway, marine, and blue economy sectors, we can create a resilient and efficient transportation network that drives national relevance and prosperity”.
Chairman of ATACA, Prince Oru Leonard Oru, welcomed guests, including the Honourable Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, and Keynote Presenter, Dr. Emeka Okengwu. Oru disclosed that ATACA’s journey since its inception in 2015, acknowledging challenges and achievements, including producing two quality journals despite funding difficulties. The seminar aimed to:
– Gain Insights_: From the keynote speaker and contributors on the theme
– Discover Investment Opportunities: Brainstorming on breakthrough technologies shaping Nigeria’s transportation future
– Explore Partnerships: Networking with potential partners for future collaborations.
The event honored the memory of Late Mr. Albert Akota, a committed ATACA member who passed away in April 2024.
The 4th ATACA Annual Seminar reinforced the Ministry’s dedication to advancing Nigeria’s transportation sector and promoting collaborative efforts with media professionals.
Cover Photo Caption: Ministers Rep, Special Guests and ATACA EXCO
