African Transport Conference 2025: A Historic Milestone
Launching the INSTATA Consortium for Continental Transport Transformation
A Groundbreaking Continental Commitment
The African Transport Conference 2025 has successfully concluded with a groundbreaking declaration by Africa's leading academic institutions, industry actors, transport unions, and development partners to collaborate under the Innovation, Science and Technology for Advancing Transportation in Africa (INSTATA) Consortium.
Convened by the Foresight Institute of Research and Translation (FIRAT-Rwanda) in collaboration with Yaba College of Technology (YCT), Lagos State University (LASU) School of Transport and Logistics, Federal Polytechnic Ilaro (FPI), M-Solutions Consulting International (MSCI), Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Federal University of Transportation Daura (FUTD), and Expanse Resources Consulting Ltd, the conference brought together more than 200 participants over three days.
The opening ceremony was graced by several dignitaries including the Managing Director of FIRAT, Kudirat Adedeji, who delivered the welcome address. Engr Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, the Rector of Yaba College of Technology, gave the Chairman's opening remark. The Guest Lecturer, Professor Charles Asenime from the School of Transport and Logistics of Lagos State University, and the Representative of LAMATA were among the notable speakers. A special Keynote address was delivered by the Vice Chancellor of University of Transport, Daura, Professor Umar Adam Katsayal. The occasion was witnessed by Hon. Toyin Fayinka, Deputy Chairman, House of Representative Committee on Land Transport, ably represented by Dr. Salaudeen Arisekola, and many dignitaries in the transport sector.
"We have launched a new era of African solutions for Africa's transport challenges. The welfare and skills of our transport workers remain the foundation of every innovation we build."
Conference Highlights
Three days of intensive collaboration, innovation, and workforce empowerment
Workforce Parliament
A first-of-its-kind forum placing drivers, mechanics, fleet operators, and transport workers at the center of decision-making.
INSTATA Declaration
Historic signing of the Consortium Collaboration Declaration marking formal commitment to the 5-year framework (2025–2030).
Smart Mechanic Villages
Commitment to establish model hubs for fabrication, training, and modern diagnostics across Nigeria.
Mental Health & Welfare
M-Solutions facilitated groundbreaking sessions on mental health and family stability for transport workers.
Research & Innovation
Technical sessions and panel discussions covering green energy, EV technology, smart mobility, and sustainable transport solutions.
Industry Partnerships
B2B networks linking SMEs, manufacturers, and institutions through Expanse Resources Consulting.
Major Conference Outcomes
Transformative commitments that will shape Africa's transport future
- Launch of the INSTATA Consortium as a continental mechanism for transport innovation and workforce empowerment
- Commitment to establish Smart Mechanic Villages across Nigeria as model hubs for fabrication and training
- Creation of funding and enterprise pathways for SMEs and parts manufacturers
- Sensitization of worker welfare and mental health frameworks for nationwide implementation
- Formation of a Workforce Parliament to convene annually for policy dialogue and sector accountability
Voices from the Conference
What participants are saying about ATC 2025
"INSTATA is a model for Africa — a practical, inclusive platform that bridges research, workforce, and industry."
"This is the first time transport workers have been allowed to meaningfully shape the agenda. We feel valued, heard, and empowered."
"We are ready to work with institutions to manufacture what we use. Nigeria can lead Africa in transport fabrication."
"The mental health sessions were transformative. For the first time, our wellbeing is being prioritized alongside technical training."
INSTATA Consortium Partners
Leading institutions driving Africa's transport transformation
The Road Ahead
INSTATA Consortium 2025–2030 Implementation Phase
The next phase of the INSTATA Consortium begins immediately, with partner institutions expected to begin work plans for:
- Establishing model innovation and mechanic centers across Nigeria
- Rolling out nationwide training programs for 20,000 transport workers
- Developing local fabrication units linked to SMEs and polytechnics
- Coordinating policy reforms aligned with AU Agenda 2063
- Launching continental partnerships by 2026
The African Transport Conference 2025 has set the stage for transformational collaboration and represents a historic commitment to transportation reform driven by Africa, for Africa.
Join the Movement
Be part of Africa's transport transformation. Connect with the INSTATA Consortium to explore collaboration opportunities.
Contact INSTATA Consortium📧 Email: instata@firat.rw
🌐 Website: www.firat.rw
