The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Nigeria has begun plans to merge with the Institute of Transport Administration (IOTA) in order to transform the transport sector in Nigeria.
Several members and top executives have been advocating this merger in recent times and the amalgamation of both institutes is expected to enhance the level of professionalism required to develop transportation in the country.
During an exclusive chat with MMS Plus, the National President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Nigeria, Mr. Ibrahim Jibril affirmed that since he was notified about the idea, he had been very comfortable and expectant.
According to Jibril, the plan would be a success for the industry because the amalgamation of associations with professionals coming from the logistics and transport industry would further develop the sector.
He stated that such merger was in line with the CILT slogan which says “Stronger, Together”.
Similarly another senior executive at the Institute of Transport Administration (IOTA) who pleaded anonymity said that it was time for both associations to unite and quit standing in disarray.
“We have several professors and other knowledgeable members in both associations. These are people who are key leaders in various aspects of the transport industry. You need to see some of the books they have written or just listen to them speak about this industry and you will be amazed to see how much they know when it comes to transportation” he said.
The IOTA executive asserted that the knowledge and expertise of people like Prof. Bamidele Badejo would be more valuable when both associations merge especially as Prof. Badejo is a member of both groups.
However, all stakeholders in the transport industry are watching keenly as the both associations with international origin seek to unite in Nigeria.
CILT Nigeria was founded in 1958 and operates under the Royal Charter as an International Branch. The institute is saddled with the responsibility of educating, training, certification, setting standards of practice, licensing of professionals, monitoring and regulating professional practice in Nigeria.
On the other hand, IoTA Nigeria is an affiliate centre which operates as an autonomous body and is approved by the Federal Ministry of Transport. IoTA is a membership organization dedicated to promoting professionalism in transport and its objectives include designing up to date training and best practice schemes to facilitate the educational needs of the modern transport manager or operator.
