Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has offered to provide 1,000 square metres of land for the implementation of the proposed Smart National Transport Data Bank in the state, describing the facility as a major development that would stimulate Edo State’s economy through employment generation, improved security, increased revenue and technology transfer.
The governor gave the assurance when he received a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Transportation, led by the Permanent Secretary, Olufunso Adebiyi, a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, FNSE, at Government House, Benin City.
The delegation included representatives of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT) and Arab Investment.
Governor Okpebholo said the project aligned with his administration’s commitment to transforming Edo from an ancient city into a modern one, adding that he was excited by the prospect of hosting the facility.
“Setting up a transport data centre in Edo State is huge. A lot of benefits will come to us. Social benefits will be there; employment will also be there, not to talk of the revenue that will come to us.
“I see it as a development that will uplift our economy in this state. I am delighted that Edo was mentioned in that meeting where the approval was discussed. To me, it is a recognition,” the governor said.
He assured the delegation of his administration’s readiness to provide the necessary support for the project, including land for the proposed facility.
“Knowing full well that approval has been given at the federal level, whatever you require from us, including 1,000 square metres of land, we can give you. I will direct EdoGIS to commence the process,” he added.
The governor noted that the selection of Edo State for the project was another recognition of the state, recalling that the 83 Armoured Division was also sited in Edo recently despite competition from other states.
Earlier, Adebiyi said 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, like the system operating in the aviation industry.
According to him, 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.
Adebiyi explained that the project 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, while the state and federal governments would not be required to fund the construction.
Highlighting the gains of the proposed project, the permanent secretary said it would strengthen security, improve revenue generation, facilitate access to transport data, and create employment opportunities, while also promoting technology transfer.
“Your Excellency, this project has come to stay, and it will kick-start immediately. Edo is the first state I am visiting for this purpose,” Adebiyi said.
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.