A Nigerian-born transportation engineering consultant, Mr. Ahmed Oyeyemi, has said that the integration of technology and advanced analytics can greatly improve the efficiency and safety of transportation systems in Nigeria and across the world.
Oyeyemi, who works with the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration in the United States, explained that the use of sensors, real-time data analysis, and intelligent transport systems can reduce congestion, minimise accidents, and enhance the overall movement of people and goods.
In a statement on Thursday, he stressed that although infrastructure development such as building new roads and bridges is important, it is not enough on its own. According to him, solving transport challenges requires a combined approach that blends technology, sound policy, and responsible human behaviour.
He pointed to lessons from his research on Lagos, where rapid urbanisation has continued to stretch road capacity and increase accident rates. Oyeyemi said Lagos stands as a clear example of how smart transport solutions could improve safety, save time, and reduce stress for commuters.
“The lessons from Lagos, where rapid urban growth has stretched our transport systems, show that smart technology can save time, prevent crashes, and improve quality of life. Transportation is not just about moving people and goods; it is about saving lives, protecting the environment, and ensuring economic competitiveness,” Oyeyemi said.
He further revealed that he is working on frameworks such as Vision Zero Freight and Smart Mobility, aimed at improving trucking safety, reducing harmful emissions, and creating equitable access to transport systems.
Oyeyemi added that investment in infrastructure alone cannot solve Nigeria’s mobility challenges. Instead, he urged policymakers to explore innovative technologies such as traffic sensors, connected vehicles, data-driven traffic management, and digital enforcement systems to complement ongoing construction works.
He also noted that policies must encourage responsible driving culture, ensure compliance with safety rules, and promote long-term investment in sustainable mobility. According to him, the combination of technology, effective regulation, and positive human behaviour will create safer roads, reduce accidents, and boost economic productivity.
Transport experts have long argued that Nigeria’s road safety crisis is tied to poor planning, lack of modern technology, and weak enforcement of traffic regulations. Analysts say that the adoption of smart technology could transform Nigeria’s transport sector, improve logistics for businesses, and reduce the annual loss of lives and goods caused by accidents.
Oyeyemi maintained that Nigeria cannot afford to ignore global trends in intelligent transport systems, as technology has already helped countries like Sweden, Singapore, and the United States cut down on road accidents and improve traffic flow.
He urged the Federal and state governments to engage professionals, invest in training, and adopt data-driven planning to ensure that urban growth does not continue to overwhelm transport infrastructure.
