Giant Strides in Transportation: How Sen. Said Ahmed Alkali is Repositioning Nigeria’s Transport Sector By Oluwaseun Adeola Oluwole, Integ...
Giant Strides in Transportation: How Sen. Said Ahmed Alkali is Repositioning Nigeria’s Transport Sector
In a time when infrastructure transformation is pivotal to Nigeria’s economic revival, the Federal Ministry of Transportation under the leadership of Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, the Honourable Minister of Transportation, has continued to witness significant progress and innovation. His dedication to reforming the sector is both visionary and pragmatic—anchored on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope agenda.
A Journey Rooted in Service
Born on February 12, 1969, Senator Alkali began his public service career as the Secretary of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board before taking on the role of Commissioner for Information in Gombe State. His political trajectory soared when he was elected Senator for Gombe North during the 2010 by-election on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He retained the seat in the 2011 general elections and later re-emerged victorious in 2019, this time under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
His consistent record of legislative accomplishments and grassroots impact paved the way for his appointment as Minister of Transportation on August 16, 2023. Since assuming office, Senator Alkali has brought to bear a unique combination of experience, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s transport systems.
Revolutionizing Rail Transport
One of Senator Alkali's boldest initiatives is the strategic transition of Nigeria’s railway system from diesel-powered locomotives to more sustainable and cost-effective energy sources like Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). This move is not only aimed at cutting down the high cost of diesel but also reflects Nigeria’s growing embrace of cleaner energy alternatives in its transportation architecture.
CNG-Powered Buses – A New Era
In a landmark achievement, the Ministry recently launched several CNG-powered mass transit buses in Abuja, with plans already in motion to extend the project to other major cities across Nigeria. This bold step directly addresses the twin challenges of high transport fares and environmental pollution, while also creating jobs across the transportation and energy value chains.
Reviving Education and Innovation: University of Transport, Daura
Education remains at the heart of sustainable development in transportation. Senator Alkali played a crucial role in recommissioning the University of Transportation, Daura, a key institution dedicated to grooming the next generation of transport professionals. Under his watch, the university successfully secured the 2025 TETFund Intervention Grant, a move that will boost infrastructure, research, and learning opportunities for students.
Turning Waste to Wealth
In another innovative policy direction, the Ministry has initiated programs aimed at converting metal waste into economic assets, ensuring that what was previously considered refuse becomes a source of revenue and industrial raw material. This initiative is designed to stimulate the local manufacturing sector, reduce imports, and promote circular economic practices.
Champion of Diligence and Delivery
Colleagues and observers describe Senator Alkali as a man who loves his work and is deeply committed to excellence. His hands-on approach and emphasis on transparency and efficiency have re-energized the Ministry of Transportation, making it one of the shining beacons of the Tinubu administration.
Driving the Renewed Hope Agenda
All of these achievements are being driven under the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu—a transformative blueprint focused on restoring public trust, enhancing infrastructure, and fostering sustainable economic growth. The Ministry of Transportation, under Senator Alkali, is proving to be a key player in delivering on these promises.
As the months go by, Nigerians can expect more landmark projects, policy reforms, and people-centered innovations from the Ministry. With leaders like Senator Said Ahmed Alkali at the helm, the future of transportation in Nigeria is undoubtedly heading in the right direction.
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