Sanwo-Olu's Government Accelerates Multi-Modal Transport Development in Lagos
By Oluwole Oluwaseun Adeola
Lagos, Nigeria – April 22, 2025 — The Lagos State Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to revolutionizing the state's transport landscape through a multifaceted approach that integrates road, rail, and water transport systems, in line with the THEMES+ agenda of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
At the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing, the Honourable Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, presented landmark achievements, ongoing projects, and strategic goals under the Ministry of Transportation, underscoring the state's holistic vision for a seamless and sustainable urban mobility system.
Intelligent Traffic Systems and Junction Upgrades
Lagos State continues to battle traffic congestion through targeted infrastructure upgrades. The government has improved 49 traffic-prone junctions with ongoing works at strategic locations such as Ikorodu, Iju, and the Allen-Opebi-Toyin street axis. These upgrades include road expansions, signalization, and alternative lane provisions designed to ease bottlenecks and improve travel time.
Additionally, the introduction of intelligent traffic signal lights powered by solar energy, particularly in Lekki, Surulere, and Victoria Island, showcases Lagos’ move towards smart urban traffic solutions.
LASTMA and Enforcement Synergy
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) remains pivotal in maintaining order on Lagos roads. With increased collaboration with federal law enforcement and emergency agencies, LASTMA has recovered over 100 broken-down vehicles and launched a toll-free hotline for traffic complaints. Over 800 officers received capacity-building training, while advocacy programs targeted schools and communities across six educational districts.
Parking Reform and Technology Adoption
The Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) is transforming parking systems through digital innovations such as e-permits, QR-code verification, and electronic signage. With over 3,900 regulated on-street parking slots created and over 900 permits issued, the authority is improving urban mobility while cracking down on illegal parking.
Water Transportation Gets a Boost
Water transport is receiving massive attention as a viable alternative to Lagos’ congested roads. The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) launched 15 locally fabricated “Omnibus” ferries in 2024, now operational under LAGFERRY and private operators. The introduction of the Cowry Card for ferry rides, retrofitting of jetties, and the opening of new ferry terminals, such as the Ijegun Egba Terminal, mark a shift towards more inclusive, digital-first marine commuting.
LASWA was recently awarded the ISO 9001:2015 certification, signaling global compliance in water transport operations. A major expansion project — OMI EKO, funded by the French Development Agency, includes the construction of 25 jetties and the acquisition of 78 electric ferries.
Rail Transport Milestones: Blue and Red Lines
The Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) system is progressing rapidly. The Blue Line, now fully operational between Marina and Mile 2, has already ferried over 2 million passengers. The Red Line from Oyingbo to Agbado is also in full commercial use, with additional tracks and rolling stock under procurement.
Benefits of these projects include reduced travel time, environmental gains, improved safety, and enhanced urban mobility. New rail corridors, such as the Green and Purple Lines, are in the pipeline — the former spanning 68km from Marina to Lekki Free Zone, the latter linking Redemption Camp to Ojo.
LBSL: Moving Millions, Subventing Commuter Costs
The Lagos Bus Service Limited (LBSL), which runs over 1,000 trips daily, has ferried over 60 million passengers since its inception. Operating on 21 routes across 13 LGAs, LBSL maintains a lower average fare (₦542.66) compared to informal transit options (₦1,097.73), effectively subsidizing transport for Lagosians by over ₦14.9 billion.
Enforcement, Road Safety, and Green Transport
Through the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS), over 1 million roadworthiness certificates and proof of ownership documents were issued. Advanced surveillance via ANPR technology recorded nearly half a million traffic violations. The State has also promoted eco-friendly transport by approving CNG and electric vehicles for commercial use.
Empowering Tomorrow's Drivers
The Lagos State Drivers’ Institute (LASDRI) trained over 32,000 drivers between May 2024 and March 2025, with a focus on safety, ethics, and professionalism. Specialized programs targeted convoy drivers, school bus operators, and logistics firms, with computer-based recertification now in place.
Public Engagement and Tech-Driven Awareness
To increase visibility and transparency, the Ministry launched a rebranded digital engagement strategy with informative TikTok content, weekly updates, and interactive safety campaigns. The viral success of their posts led to a significant spike in online engagement, with a 159% growth on Instagram and a 100% increase on Facebook.
A Holistic Vision for Urban Mobility
In his concluding remarks, Commissioner Osiyemi emphasized that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration is not merely building infrastructure but shaping the future of commuting in Lagos. “This journey is about integration, sustainability, safety, and quality of life,” he stated.
With a clear roadmap, tangible results, and a forward-thinking strategy, Lagos is positioning itself as a model for urban transportation reform in Africa.
