Lagos has taken the lead in driving Africa's transition to clean and inclusive transport systems as it hosts the 2025 International Conference on Sustainable Urban Mobility (SUMConference25), organised by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA).
With the theme "Harnessing Clean Urban Transport Innovation and Investment in Africa," the conference brings together policymakers, investors, and innovators from across the continent to explore strategies that promote sustainable mobility and support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the transport value chain.
Declaring the summit open, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, said clean transport is vital for competitiveness, economic inclusion, and public health. "We must direct innovation and investment towards building climate-smart, people-focused, and future-ready transport systems," he said.
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LAMATA Managing Director, Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, said the conference marks a shift from dialogue to action, noting that Lagos is scaling up clean technologies such as electric and CNG-powered buses. "Sustainable mobility is both achievable and profitable," she said.
The forum features delegates from over 12 African countries and development partners, including the African Development Bank (AfDB) and UN-Habitat, with discussions on financing frameworks, carbon markets, and green innovation.
Akinajo emphasised that clean transport will not only reduce emissions but also unlock new business opportunities for SMEs in logistics, manufacturing, and maintenance. "From our roads to waterways, Lagos is embracing innovation as a necessity," she said.
