Transport administrators and road safety professionals from across the country have converged on Jos for the 2025 Annual Conference of Directors and Chief Road Traffic Officers of the Federation, to chart new strategies for safer roads and improved vehicle management in Nigeria.
Held at Steffan Hotel and Suites, Rayfield, the conference — themed “Enhancing National Security and Road Traffic Safety Through Effective Motor Vehicle Administration“— provided a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on reforms that align motor vehicle administration with emerging security realities.
Declaring the event open, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by his Chief of Staff, Engr. Jeremiah Satmak, commended the organisers for choosing Plateau as host, describing the conference as both timely and relevant to current national needs.
He noted that the State Government is working to transform its transport system through infrastructure upgrades and digital innovation, adding that technology will play a defining role in the future of road transport and safety.
“As we consolidate the gains already recorded, it has become increasingly clear that technology must drive the future of transportation governance. Paper-based operations must give way to smart systems that support security, enhance efficiency, and strengthen collaboration among regulatory agencies,” he said.
The Governor assured that his administration will continue to invest in infrastructure and innovation to make Plateau’s transport system safer, smarter, and more inclusive.
Speaking on behalf of the National Chairman, Sir (Engr.) Bepeh Paul Ugbe, the General Secretary of the Conference, Engr. Durojaye Babawale Olalekan, said the annual gathering offers an opportunity to harmonise standards and adopt innovative technologies to strengthen motor vehicle administration across the country.
“When vehicle registration and licensing systems are poorly enforced, they undermine public safety and national security. This conference provides a platform to explore coordinated strategies to strengthen our systems, leverage technology, and ensure accountability,” he said.
Plateau State Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Davou Gyang Jatau, in his remarks, welcomed delegates to the “Home of Peace and Tourism,” commending the state’s proactive leadership in the transport sector under Governor Mutfwang.
He outlined key achievements including road rehabilitation, digital vehicle licensing, and continuous training for VIO officers.
The Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer of Plateau State, Lady Anna G. Mweltok, expressed delight that Plateau successfully hosted the national event for the first time. She noted improvements in staff welfare, refurbishment of operational trucks, and renewed efforts to foster unity within the service.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Shedrack Gaya Best, Vice-Chancellor of Plateau State University, Bokkos, underscored the critical link between vehicle administration and national security, stressing the need for inter-agency cooperation and integration of motor vehicle data into national security systems.
“Vehicles have become both targets and instruments of crime. If they are effectively documented and monitored, criminal enterprises will become more difficult,” he said.
As deliberations continue, participants are expected to adopt resolutions that will enhance professionalism, improve compliance, and contribute to safer road use across Nigeria.
The conference also featured goodwill messages, technical sessions, and social engagements — all of which showcased Plateau’s famed hospitality and reaffirmed its readiness to host future national events.
