Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has expressed enthusiasm for the proposed establishment of a Smart National Transport Data Bank in the state. The governor made this statement when he received a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Transportation, led by the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi, at Government House, Benin City. The meeting discussed the implementation of the project, which aims to boost security, jobs, and revenue generation in the state.
Governor Okpebholo described the proposed transport data centre as a major development that would stimulate Edo State's economy through employment generation, improved security, increased revenue, and technology transfer. He said the project aligned with his administration's commitment to transforming Edo from an ancient city into a modern one. The governor added that he was excited by the prospect of hosting the facility, citing the numerous benefits it would bring to the state.
The governor assured the delegation of his administration's readiness to provide the necessary support for the project, including land for the proposed facility. He offered 1,000 square metres of land for the project and directed EdoGIS to commence the process. Governor Okpebholo noted that the selection of Edo State for the project was another recognition of the state, recalling that the 83 Armoured Division was also cited in Edo recently despite competition from other states.
Earlier, Adebiyi explained that the proposed initiative was part of President Bola Tinubu's vision to establish a structured transport data management system for Nigeria's land transportation sector. The Federal Government has approved the development of standardised bus terminals across the country, beginning with one in each geopolitical zone, before extending the programme to other states. The project aims to strengthen security, improve revenue generation, and create employment opportunities.
According to Adebiyi, the initiative would require participating states to provide 1,000 square metres of land for the construction of an office that would house and manage transport data. The state and federal governments would not be required to fund the construction. The permanent secretary said the project would facilitate access to transport data, promote technology transfer, and kick-start immediately, with Edo being the first state to benefit.
The delegation's visit is expected to pave the way for further engagement between the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Edo State Government on the provision of land and other requirements for the project. The Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Yakubu Musa, JP; the Commissioner for Transportation; the Commissioner for Public Security and Safety; and other government officials were present at the meeting.
The proposed transport data centre is expected to have a significant impact on Edo State's economy and security. With the governor's assurance of support, the project is likely to move forward quickly. The implementation of the project will be closely watched, as it has the potential to serve as a model for other states in Nigeria.
Key points
- The Edo State Government has offered 1,000 square metres of land for the proposed Smart National Transport Data Bank.
- The project aims to strengthen security, improve revenue generation, and create employment opportunities in Edo State.
- The proposed transport data centre is part of President Bola Tinubu's vision to establish a structured transport data management system for Nigeria's land transportation sector.
