Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to sustain infrastructure development.
The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday at the inauguration of the Abule-Egba bus terminal, where he announced a 30 percent reduction in transport fares on the state’s red line rail.
According to the governor, passengers will now pay N1,000 instead of N1,500 for train services on the route.
The governor said that the reduction was to encourage more people to use the train as an alternative transport means.
“About six years ago, we pledged to the people of Lagos State to upgrade our public transportation system with modern and sustainable infrastructure to enable them to meet their daily aspirations.
“We are here to hand over to the people another public infrastructure that will aid seamless commuting.
“This infrastructure reflects our commitment to continuously enhance public transportation, strengthen connectivity and improve the overall experience for commuters.
“We are dedicated to taking steps to advance and modernise transportation across the state,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu said that all hands were on deck to ensure that the green line rail would begin operations soon.
“In addition to the blue and red rail lines in operation, we have initiated moves to kick-start the 68km green line – from Marina to Lekki free zone – and the 60km purple line, from the Redemption camp in Ogun State to Volkswagen Area on the Lagos Badagry expressway, to connect with the blue line.
“You will recall that before the close of 2024, I signed a historic memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated and China Harbour Engineering Company to bring the green line to life.
“The green line will link Marina to key areas such as Victoria Island, Lekki, Ajah and other communities along the Lekki-Epe corridor.
“It is projected to move more than one million passengers daily when demand for its service is at the peak,” he said.
The governor added that the state would receive additional Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses soon.
“To further enhance our bus services, we are anticipating the arrival of new CNG buses and electric buses by the third quarter of this year.
“These additions will expand our current fleet, increase availability of buses and reduce waiting times at bus stations for commuters,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu said that his administration would not relent in its bid to ensure that water transport would be a viable alternative for the state residents.
“We are also implementing numerous measures to enhance the safety and appeal of our waterways, making water transport a more attractive and convenient option for commuters.
“A key part of this effort is the Omi Eko water transport project, a 410 million Euros initiative designed to transform Lagos inland waterways into a world-class transportation network.
“This visionary project will not only enhance mobility but will also act as a catalyst for urban and economic growth,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu said that the state government was building two interchange hubs at Marina and Mile 2 to create a system where commuters could choose to travel by bus, train or ferry.
“The hubs will be a melting pot for all modes of transportation including non-motorised transport,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He urged the residents to continue to pay their taxes to enable the government to continue to serve them well.
“This infrastructure has been made possible through your tax contributions.
“I urge you to take pride in it, protect it and ensure that it remains safe from any harm or damage.
“By safeguarding public assets, we can all benefit from their long-term value and continue to build a better future for our community,” he said.
Earlier, Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, the managing director, of Lagos Metropolitan Transport Authority, said that the Abule Egba bus terminal, like others, would not only enhance mobility but also act as a catalyst for urbanisation and economic growth.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Abule Egba bus terminal has gender-friendly toilets, loading and waiting bays, offices, restaurants and shops.
