The Lagos State Government is set to revolutionize transportation with the introduction of 2,000 new mass transit buses powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). This initiative, part of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement with investors, aims to enhance transportation services in the state. The announcement was made by the State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, during the 2024 Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre.
In addition to the CNG buses, plans are underway for the launch of 250 new electric-powered (EV) cabs by a private operator/investor in June. This move aligns with the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmentally friendly transportation alternatives.
To cater to the daily transportation needs of Lagos State’s nearly 25 million commuters, there will be an expansion of infrastructure within the metropolis. This includes the development of the Deep Sea Port in Badagry and the construction of the Fourth Mainland Bridge, which is expected to commence soon.
During the press briefing, Commissioner Osiyemi highlighted the effectiveness of the recently introduced Traffic Management Solution (TMS) device. Over the past three months, the TMS device has captured 26,816 real-time traffic infringements, demonstrating its contribution to enhancing traffic management and enforcement in the state.
Furthermore, the use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras has aided traffic officers in recording over 856,000 violations between January 2023 and March 2024. These technologies play a crucial role in improving road safety and ensuring compliance with traffic regulations.
In line with efforts to promote sustainable transportation, the Lagos State Government also plans to add more electric buses to the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) fleet. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to modernizing the transportation sector and addressing the challenges of urban mobility in Lagos State.