The Nation Newspaper

Category: Transportation

  • Tinubu inaugurates FCT’s first modern bus terminals

    Tinubu inaugurates FCT’s first modern bus terminals

    President Tinubu also inaugurated the first-ever bus terminals in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with a declaration that his administration was taking decisive steps to bring order, accountability and safety to public transportation.

    He said the new bus terminals are fitted with state-of-the-art facilities that a capital city truly deserves.

    The president, who noted the features of terminals, said he was particularly pleased with the inclusion of amenities such as cinema halls where commuters could unwind.

    At  the Mabushi Bus Terminal, one of three such facilities in FCT, the President, who was represented by   House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen  , commended   FCT Minister  Nyesom Wike for his relentless pursuit of excellence.  

    He added that Wike’s commitment to providing first-class infrastructure for Abuja was evident in the quality and speed of project delivery.

    READ ALSO: Tinubu orders speedy execution of approved projects

    Tinubu also opined that beyond the immediate benefits of organised transport  , the project would also serve as a powerful engine for economic empowerment.

    He said:  “With the completion of the Mabushi Bus Terminal and the Kugbo terminal, which I have been informed is also ready for commissioning, we are taking decisive steps to bring order, accountability, and safety to public transportation.

    “As we inaugurate the Mabushi Bus Terminal, we are not just opening a building; we are opening a new chapter for public transportation in Abuja. We are reaffirming our promise to provide a city where citizens can live, work, and commute with dignity, safety, and efficiency. This is a clear demonstration that our Renewed Hope Agenda is not merely a slogan, but a lived experience for our people.

    “I urge all residents and transporters to make full use of this facility, to cooperate with the authorities, and to embrace this new era of organised and secure public transit.”

    Wike had in address, restated that the project was to enhance security by reducing the number of unauthorised vehicles on the roads.

    He said that the terminal will not be operated by the FCT Transport Secretariat.

    The minister said:  ‘’We will concession it to private operators, who will run it efficiently.

    “The terminal will operate 24 hours a day, providing commuters with a safe and comfortable space to wait for their buses. There will be amenities such as food courts, restrooms, and entertainment facilities.”

    Wike thanked the President and the National Assembly for their support in making the project a reality.

  • Ex-transport minister urges FG to tackle unemployment through diving sector devt

    Ex-transport minister urges FG to tackle unemployment through diving sector devt

    Retired Rear Admiral and former Minister of Transport, Festus Porbeni, has called on the federal government to unlock massive employment opportunities by prioritising the development of Nigeria’s diving sector.

    Porbeni, who currently chairs Bics Garden, made the call while addressing journalists on Tuesday. 

    He expressed concern over the government’s neglect of the sector, noting that despite its vast potential, it remains largely untapped—leaving millions of youths unemployed.

    He urged the government to establish modern, state-of-the-art training institutions to develop skilled divers. 

    According to him, such professionals would be equipped to contribute across multiple sectors, including oil and gas, maritime operations, underwater archaeology, and the broader marine and blue economy.

    He said, “In this country, there are not many divers. Diving schools are very few. So, we have foreigners doing diving jobs for us in all the oil exploration, diving and repair, working at pipelines, as well as other areas.

    Read Also: I ’ll reduce youth unemployment in Ojokoro, says APC chairmanship aspirant

    “Diving should be taken more seriously and the government should put some more effort. I was a Frogman, a naval diver, and I know the many advantages of having divers in our seas. As a Frogman, I could dive under ships to install bombs; but for real diving, you can also repair the propeller, lay underwater pipelines, carryout anti-fouling, do underwater exploration, etc.

    Noting that in other countries, it is easier to obtain requisite training and a certificate as a trained and certified diver, Porbeni called on the federal government to intentionally establish training institutions that would equip Nigerian youths with skills for gainfully employment.

    “If Nigerians have to go to South Africa and to other countries to be trained on diving, it is a challenge. Hence, there is a need to establish diving schools that will train young Nigerians to be expert and to be certificated,” he said.

    Porbeni recalled some of his activities as a former Minister of Transportation; including the dredging of River Niger and addressing challenges arising from siltation.

    He admonished the government to dredge the nation’s inland waterway channels and river ports in order to transform the nation’s transport system with waterways as first-choice for conveying goods and persons.

    To enhance the development of the nation’s waterways transport, Porbeni averred that synergy and interagency collaboration is needed between the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and State Government organisations like the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA).

    While congratulating President Bola Tinubu on his economic reforms such as; subsidy removal, forex stability, coastal super highway under construction, and other decisions to salvage the nation’s economy, Porbeni pleaded with Nigerians to exercise patience with the current administration, adding that despite the tough economic times the nation will fare better in the near future.

    “It has been 26 years of uninterrupted democracy since 1999. There have been challenges, conflicts and heated electoral processes; but the nation has stood firm. This is something that is worth celebrating even as we look forward to achieving more with democracy,” he remarked.

  • FULL LIST: Top 10 “tokunbo” cars you can get for ₦3m–₦5m

    FULL LIST: Top 10 “tokunbo” cars you can get for ₦3m–₦5m

    In Nigeria, “tokunbo” is referred to as fairly used or second-hand vehicles imported from countries like the United States, Canada, or parts of Europe. These cars are typically more affordable than brand-new ones and often come in better condition than locally used options.

    If you’re in the market for a car today, your budget matters more than ever:

    ₦2 million to ₦3 million: You’ll need patience and a good dose of luck to land a decent deal.

    ₦5 million and above: You’re in a comfortable position. Expect a wider range of quality options.

    ₦3–₦5 million: It’s a tight spot, but not hopeless. While your choices are limited, there are still some solid buys out there.

    Here are the 10 reliable tokunbo cars that fall within the ₦3–₦5 million range.

    1. Toyota Solara (2003–2004) – The Sporty Coupe

    Engine Options: 2.4L 4-cylinder or 3.3L V6

    Fuel Type: Petrol

    Transmission: Automatic

    Fuel Economy: ~9-10 km/l

    This car has a stylish 2-door design, a reliable Toyota engine with convertible option. It is perfect for those who want Camry reliability with a sporty twist. It shares most of its parts with the Camry, so repairs and maintenance are not hard in Nigeria. The V6 version gives more power, while the 4-cylinder keeps it fuel-efficient. Make sure the leather seats and interior trims haven’t suffered from sun damage, which is common in Nigeria’s hot climate.

    2. Hyundai Santa Fe (2004)

    Engine Options: 2.4L 4-cylinder or 2.7L V6

    Fuel Type: Petrol

    Transmission: Automatic/Manual

    Fuel Economy: ~10-11 km/l

    This is an affordable entry into the SUV world. This car is a stylish Korean SUV with a comfortable cabin and decent performance. Early models lacked a V6 engine, but later ones came fully equipped. It’s comfortable, stylish in its own way, and decent for family use or light travel. Just be cautious, some models come with electrical issues. When you are about to buy this car, watch out especially for this.

    3. Nissan Micra (2002)

    Engine: 1.0L or 1.4L 4-cylinder

    Fuel Type: Petrol

    Transmission: Manual (mostly)

    Fuel Economy: ~14-16 km/l

    With the high price of fuel, this car is perfect because of its excellent fuel economy. The 2002 Micra is a favourite among drivers because of its compact size and strong engine. It’s easy to park and reliable. Most of them are Tokunbo, but you can find Nigerian-used ones in great condition. It’s ideal for transporters, especially in Ibadan, and small business owners. It is also best for school runs and short-distance errands. With how old this car is, you would think this car should cost ₦2m.

    4. Honda Civic (iRobot – 2006–2011)

    Engine: 1.8L or 2.0L i-VTEC

    Fuel Type: Petrol

    Transmission: Automatic/Manual

    Fuel Economy: ~11-13 km/l

    You should buy this car because it has a stylish, reliable, and futuristic interior. It was nicknamed “iRobot” because of its space-age dashboard design. This Civic generation is a favourite in Nigeria for good reason. It’s strong, agile, and durable. The digital speedometer and smooth ride make it a joy to drive. When you are about to buy this car, look out for transmission issues in poorly maintained units and stick to low-mileage models.

    Read Also: Otedola eulogises Tinubu, describes President as history maker

    5. Toyota Camry (2002–2006) – “Big Daddy”

    Engine: 2.4L 4-cylinder

    Fuel Type: Petrol

    Transmission: Automatic

    Fuel Economy: ~10-12 km/l

    This car is reliable, has cheap parts, and is great for long-distance travel. It is popularly known as “Big Daddy” or “Big for Nothing.” This Camry is a legend. It may look large, but it handles like a sedan and runs like a champ. Used heavily by transporters and working professionals alike. It is best for ride-hailing businesses and family rides.

    6. Hyundai Accent (2006)

    Engine: 1.4L or 1.6L

    Fuel Type: Petrol

    Transmission: Manual/Automatic

    Fuel Economy: ~14-16 km/l

    This is an extremely fuel-efficient car with a smooth ride. Believe it or not, the 2006 Accent is more expensive now in the used market than when it launched. That’s how much people value its fuel economy. It’s perfect for everyday commutes and can run on low fuel budgets. However, it is not ideal for big families or those who travel with a lot of luggage.

    7. BMW E46 (1998–2005)

    Engine Options: 2.5L, 2.8L, 3.0L Inline-6

    Fuel Type: Petrol

    Transmission: Manual/Automatic

    Fuel Economy: ~9-11 km/l

    The E46 is a beloved compact luxury sedan. It’s classy, sporty, and gives that signature German feel. If well-maintained, it’s a joy to drive. The biggest challenge is its maintenance. You’ll need a good mechanic and a budget for premium parts. It’s best found in Northern Nigeria (Kano, Kaduna), less corrosion due to the drier climate.

    8. Honda Pilot (2004–2005)

    Engine: 3.5L V6

    Fuel Type: Petrol

    Transmission: Automatic

    Fuel Economy: ~9-11 km/l

    The Pilot is spacious, comfortable, and functional. It’s great for large families or logistics use. However, it’s a bit thirsty when it comes to fuel. Also, watch out for oil consumption and worn-out suspension on high-mileage units. It has three rows of seats and is great for road trips. Just stick to one with a clean maintenance history.

    9. Danfo (Commercial Bus)

    Engine: 2.0L or 2.4L (Depending on model)

    Fuel Type: Petrol/Diesel

    Transmission: Manual

    Fuel Economy: Variable

    A Danfo bus is a business. This car used to be less than ₦3m at some point, but the new cost now is between ₦3.4M and ₦3.6M. It is a smart investment for anyone entering the transport business. It has a high-income potential and is practical for commercial use. When you are buying, budget for rebranding and minor body repairs.

    10. Mazda Tribute (2004–2005)

    Engine: 2.3L or 3.0L V6

    Fuel Type: Petrol

    Transmission: Automatic

    Fuel Economy: ~9-11 km/l

    Mazda’s Tribute was often overlooked but offers good value in the Nigerian market. It’s essentially a Ford Escape in Mazda skin, meaning cheap and available parts. It’s a practical option if you want an SUV but can’t afford a RAV4 or CR-V. It also shares components with the Ford Escape. It is rugged and roomy.

  • NRC adds extra trips for Lagos-Ibadan route, announces special Eid service

    NRC adds extra trips for Lagos-Ibadan route, announces special Eid service

    The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced additional train services for the Lagos-Ibadan route and a special festive operation on the Warri-Itakpe corridor as part of efforts to accommodate increased passenger traffic during the Eid-al-Kabir celebrations.

    According to the NRC, an extra trip has been added to the Lagos-Ibadan Train Service (LITS) on Thursday, June 5, 2025. The move is aimed at easing the pressure on travellers commuting between the two cities during the Muslim holiday period.

    The revised Thursday schedule is as follows:

    Lagos to Ibadan:

    8:00 a.m.

    1:55 p.m. (Additional Trip)

    4:00 p.m.

    Ibadan to Lagos:

    8:00 a.m.

    11:03 a.m. (Additional Trip)

    4:46 p.m. (Note: this is a revised departure time from the original 4:00 p.m.)

    In addition to the Lagos-Ibadan service, the NRC will operate a special train on the Warri-Itakpe route, which is normally reserved for routine maintenance on Thursdays.

    Read Also: NRC, Pi-CNG signs MoU to power cleaner sustainable transition energy

    The management has rescheduled maintenance operations on the corridor to Sunday, June 8, 2025, to accommodate this special service.

    Meanwhile, the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) will continue to run on its regular schedule, with additional coaches attached to cater to the increased passenger volume expected during the festive period.

    Managing Director of NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, assured passengers of a seamless travel experience and reiterated the Corporation’s commitment to efficient and customer-oriented service delivery.

    “We wish all passengers a safe and pleasant journey as they travel to celebrate with their loved ones. NRC remains committed to providing safe and reliable railway transport across the country,” he said.

    The NRC urged passengers to make use of the additional trips and adhere to all safety protocols during their travels.

  • CNG trains will slash costs, boost economy, says Opeifa

    CNG trains will slash costs, boost economy, says Opeifa

    Nigeria’s railway sector is set for a cost-saving turnaround as the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) teams up with the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) to convert its diesel-powered locomotives to cleaner, cheaper Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

    The Managing Director of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, made this known during a media round in Lagos, where he outlined the new direction of the Corporation under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Speaking at the Mobolaji Johnson Station in Yaba shortly after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PCNGI over the weekend, Opeifa described the CNG initiative as a “game changer” that will drastically cut running costs and reposition the rail sector for growth.

    “When the president announced the subsidy removal on May 29, 2023, he had a vision for a gas revolution,” Opeifa said. “This partnership with PICNG is not just radical—it’s tremendous. It will cut our diesel costs by 70%, making rail transport more affordable and sustainable.”

    The NRC, which currently spends billions annually on diesel for locomotives, generators, and stations, is banking on a dual-fuel model that blends 70% Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) with 30% diesel. A successful proof-of-concept has already demonstrated viability, with potential fuel cost savings projected at over 60%, in line with federal projections.

    Opeifa stressed that the shift to CNG would have a ripple effect on the economy by lowering transport costs, stimulating freight movement, and reducing inflationary pressure. “When we cut costs, we don’t just save money—we deliver economic benefits across the board,” he said.

    The MoU with PCNGI, signed to mark President Tinubu’s second year in office, includes plans to establish CNG conversion centres at NRC facilities nationwide. The agreement will also leverage the NRC’s engineering expertise and expand technical training for young Nigerians.

    Training schools in Ibadan, Enugu, Kafanchan, and Zaria will embed CNG conversion into their curriculum, with three-year programmes focused on developing a workforce ready for Nigeria’s energy transition. “Our engineers, including women, rebuilt a failed engine in just three days,” Opeifa proudly noted.

    In addition to conversion works, NRC coaches will serve as mobile CNG awareness platforms. Pilot stations in gas-rich states like Oyo will distribute gas to commuters and small businesses, helping to deepen public adoption of clean energy alternatives.

    The transition is also in line with Nigeria’s emission reduction goals, as the transport sector remains a key contributor to carbon emissions. “We’re not just cutting costs; we’re building a greener Nigeria,” Opeifa said.

    The NRC boss also used the media round to provide updates on ongoing infrastructure projects. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the federal government has completed key sections such as the Port Harcourt–Aba line and extended the standard gauge from Lagos to Apapa Port, with plans to reach Tin Can Port soon.

    New standard gauge corridors, including Lagos–Abuja and Port Harcourt–Maiduguri, are being mapped, alongside state connectivity plans involving Akwa Ibom, Edo, Jigawa, and others. “This government is the biggest investor in railway infrastructure. In the last decade alone, over 1,000km of new lines have been built, more than what we saw between 1960 and 2000,” he said.

    Read Also: 175 new CNG stations coming, says Pi-CNG boss

    Freight operations have also improved. Goods from Apapa Port are now moving seamlessly to Ibadan and beyond. He cited the AKK gas pipeline project as an example, where massive pipes were hauled from Warri to the North via rail, avoiding the risks of road transport.

    However, the NRC is still grappling with persistent vandalism and infrastructure sabotage. Opeifa lamented the destruction of tracks in Lagos and washouts in Minna, urging Nigerians to see railway infrastructure as public property. “These are national assets, not scrap metal,” he said.

    Despite the hurdles, he remained upbeat. Strategic partnerships with state governments—such as Lagos, Plateau, and Kaduna—under the Railing with the States initiative are helping to optimise track usage. In Lagos, the Red Line project is already sharing federal track space with the Lagos–Ibadan line.

  • Transporters decry extortion, attacks by hoodlums

    Transporters decry extortion, attacks by hoodlums

    Alhaji Bola Ogunyele, Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners chair in Southwest, has decried activities of hoodlums extorting money from truck drivers and making the routes unsafe for them in in  Lagos State. He noted that members pay exorbitant fees in transporting their goods out of Apapa and Mile 2, and risk losing their lives to attacks.

    But he praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and security agencies for coming to their aid.

     In a a statement in Lagos, he said: “We play a vital role in the socio-economic development of the nation. We are responsible for transportation of goods and services, including dry cargo, wet cargo, and commuter transport.”

    “We commend Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his efforts. We reached out to Lagos State when it was difficult for us to fulfil our responsibilities. Hoodlums and other individuals posed threats to our operations. Previously, we pay more fees to move goods from Apapa to deliver to clients.”

    READ ALSO; Top 10 oldest churches in Nigeria

    “We thank Governor Sanwo-Olu for his prompt response to our calls for help, which drastically reduced extortion of our members. We greet him for his commitment to improving trade and investment in the trucking business.”

    “Daily, our members spend huge amounts of money to get their goods and services out of Apapa. But today, thanks to the governor’s decisive actions, we are witnessing improved traffic in that area.”

    “However, like Oliver Twist, we ask the governor to enhance security for truckers and other road users. We have faced severe challenges while doing our jobs.”

    “We pay much to leave Apapa; otherwise we risk having our trucks damaged or drivers and assistants injured.”

    “We greet the police, Navy, Army, and others in keeping us safe.”

    “We request that security be intensified, especially at night, to prevent hoodlums extorting and disrupting our truckers.”

    “We hail the President ’s efforts in expanding roads. We hope to see attention given to roads in the metropolis. Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is fine, and Lagos-Abeokuta road is under repair…”

  • Oyetola donates life jackets to LASWA

    Oyetola donates life jackets to LASWA

    Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, yesterday donated a large cache of life jackets to the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) to improve safety and build trust in water transportation.

    The presentation, held at LASWA’s headquarters at the Five Cowries Terminal, Lagos, was aimed at helping Lagos take steps toward a safer and better-organised water transport system.

    Oyetola said the gesture was part of a broader Federal Government’s commitment to strengthen inland waterways infrastructure and promote safe, reliable alternatives to road travel.

    “This donation is a testament to our resolve to make water transport safer and more efficient. Safety is central to the success of our marine and blue economy strategy,” the minister said.

    READ ALSO: Quick tips to get rid, prevent bedbugs in homes, beds, others

    As part of the ceremony, LASWA officials conducted demonstrations on the proper use of life jackets. The event also featured a public sensitisation, coordinated in partnership with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Marine Police, and officials of the ministry.

    General Manager of LASWA, Damilola Emmanuel, commended the Federal Government for the support, describing it as a timely.

    “These life jackets will go a long way in our mission to ensure that every passenger and operator on Lagos waterways understands the importance of safety. This is about saving lives,” Emmanuel said.

  • George-Taylor leads maritime breakthrough with fleet of eco friendly security, offshore support vessels

    George-Taylor leads maritime breakthrough with fleet of eco friendly security, offshore support vessels

    Nigeria’s maritime and energy sectors are on the brink of a significant transformation as Dr Rotimi George-Taylor, Director of DEP Multifunctional Services Ltd, concludes negotiations to bring in a substantial fleet of eco friendly Ballistic Security Vessels, Anchor Handling Tug Supply vessels, and Platform Supply Vessels with Dynamic Positioning class (DP1, DP2, and DP3).

    This major development is one of the most ambitious maritime expansions by an indigenous firm in recent times.

     It directly addresses the widening gap between vessel availability and operational demand in Nigeria’s offshore oil and gas sector.

    While many Nigerian companies already operate vessels, the growing complexity of offshore operations has made it clear that the current supply is not enough to meet national demand. DEP’s new fleet is designed to close this gap and elevate the capacity of local operators across the country.

    The vessels being deployed are not only equipped to deliver high performance in tough offshore environments, they are also being fitted with fuel efficient systems and emission control technologies that reflect DEP’s commitment to sustainable operations.

    While not every vessel type is inherently eco friendly, significant retrofitting and compliance upgrades are being undertaken to align with international environmental standards.

    “This is a new chapter in Nigeria’s marine and energy journey,” George-Taylor said. “We are building infrastructure that strengthens our economy, reduces environmental risk, and empowers Nigerian expertise in offshore logistics.”

    The shortage of modern support and security vessels has long slowed down offshore operations, forced dependency on external charters, and caused unnecessary project delays. DEP’s investment in a robust and scalable fleet is a timely intervention that brings real solutions to the country’s energy infrastructure needs.

    DEP Multifunctional Services Ltd, founded by renowned oil and gas executive Dr Doghor Boyo, has emerged as a key player in logistics and marine support.

    Under his leadership, the company has consistently focused on growth, innovation, and local empowerment.

    Read Also: NPA, Dangote to boost maritime industry growth, expand export operations

    With Dr George-Taylor now leading international expansion and capital mobilisation, the company is strategically positioned to transform Nigeria’s offshore landscape.

    “Dr Rotimi George-Taylor has played a pivotal role in securing this deal. His vision, business intelligence, and unmatched commitment to national development have made this possible,” Dr Boyo said. “This is not just a DEP achievement. It is a win for Nigeria.”

    The incoming fleet will generate widespread impact including job creation across Nigeria’s coastal states, development of local technical expertise, and increased investor confidence in indigenous marine operations. It will also improve turnaround times for oil and gas projects, enhance the safety of offshore activities, and promote environmentally responsible practices in one of the country’s most critical industries.

  • Institute decries security challenges in transport sector

    Institute decries security challenges in transport sector

    The Chartered Institute of  Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIoTA) has decried the spate of  insecurity in the transportation systems in the country.

    The institute blamed the development on the porous state of the sector which makes it an all comers affair.

    The Institute’s National President, Dr Obayendo Ochuko Segun, raised the concern in a chat with newsmen during the LASU-NACOLM Transport and Logistics Conference and Induction held at Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos.

    The conference was themed, ‘Safety and Security in the Transportation Sector: The Way Forward.’

    Obayendo said: “The purpose of this gathering today is to re-examine our ways, is to re-examine where we are, is to look at the transportation sector vis-à-vis safety and security.

    READ ALSO: Unlike Amotekun, ESN is illegal, witness tells court

    “We want to be able to chart a way forward as far as this is concerned. We are not happy; we are not pleased with the outcome of what we are seeing on our road, on our waterways and what have you.

    And we felt we needed to do something about it. So we chose this topic, especially, that we are inducting new members so they can have the vibes of what CIoTA represents. CIoTA represents security, we also represent safety on our road.And we are chief advocates of safety and security. So how do we get there? That’s why we are here today.”

    He noted that the  transportation sector is like this because it’s an all comers affair, adding  “if you just have two million, three million, you buy a car, and you call yourself a transporter. What will you get from such a system? It will give you chaos and that’s what we are getting. So as a professional, we want to change the narrative. It needs to be sanitized. Let’s professionalize. Let’s have standards.

     Let’s have a code of conduct.”

    Speaking in the same vein, the Lagos Chairman of CIoTA,  Dr. Taiwo Olufemi-Salam, said  conscious efforts must be made to see how “we can have our transportation modes safe and secure.”

  • Univasa, Kalabash54 seal Partnership to Launch Travel Data for International Travellers

    Univasa, Kalabash54 seal Partnership to Launch Travel Data for International Travellers

    Univasa, a licensed mobility and connectivity solutions provider, has entered into a strategic partnership with Kalabash54, the fintech subsidiary of the Wakanow Group, to roll out a Travel Data eSIM product designed for international travellers. The offering, now available on the Wakanow.com platform, allows users to access and activate mobile Travel Data plans as part of the travel booking process, eliminating the hassle of sourcing connectivity abroad.

    With rising demand for digital-first solutions in the travel and mobility space, the collaboration is aimed at delivering seamless, borderless connectivity for travellers from Africa and beyond. Under the agreement, Univasa will power the backend Travel Data infrastructure, while Kalabash54 will drive the technology integration. The service is listed directly on wakanow.com.

    Speaking on the development at a press conference held on Wednesday in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos , the Chief Executive Officer of Univasa, Ben Adeniyi, said the partnership is a timely response to the evolving needs of modern travellers. “This partnership gives travellers access to high-quality, affordable Travel Data services in over 190 countries — all without swapping SIM cards. It’s seamless, secure, and exactly what modern travel requires,” he said.

    He added that working with Kalabash54 provides Univasa with the right blend of technical support and market access. “Partnering with Kalabash54 gives us the right technology and distribution synergy to scale this service while delivering on our promise of innovation and mobility,” Adeniyi noted.

    The Travel Data eSIM is embedded directly into Wakanow’s booking flow, allowing customers to purchase mobile data plans at the same time they book their flights. This removes the friction of sourcing local SIM cards, dealing with roaming charges, or encountering connectivity gaps upon arrival.

    Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of Kalabash54, Mr Ladi Ojuri, said the initiative reinforces the firm’s mission to provide intelligent, tech-enabled solutions that enhance the travel experience. “We’re building the future of travel services where payments, connectivity, and convenience all converge. With Univasa, we are solving a real problem many travellers face, staying connected easily once they arrive at their destination,” Ojuri said.

    He explained that the Travel Data service forms part of Kalabash54’s broader vision to create lifestyle infrastructure for the African traveller. “Our ambition is to deliver infrastructure that meets the African traveller at every step. This partnership is a win for the digitally savvy customer who expects everything, including Travel Data connectivity, to be handled before take-off,” he added.

    The service is backed by Univasa’s global Travel Data infrastructure and eSIM API, ensuring real-time activation and reliable performance across supported destinations. With this development, Wakanow Group, through Kalabash54, continues to deepen its digital footprint across Africa’s travel tech ecosystem, offering customers a one-stop platform for flights, accommodation, payments, and Travel Data connectivity.

    The Univasa and Wakanow teams at the official announcement of their partnership to provide travel data solutions for travellers.