The Lagos State Government has affirmed its commitment to enforce the ban on unregulated commercial bus operations, specifically “Danfos” and “Koropes,” along the Lekki-Epe corridor starting October 1, 2024. This decision, according to State officials, aims to streamline transportation under the Lagos State Strategic Transportation Master Plan.
Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, and Special Adviser on Transportation, Sola Giwa, reiterated this stance in discussions with Vanguard. They emphasized the necessity of collaboration with public transport operators to implement restructuring plans that enhance commuting experiences.
Giwa highlighted recent stakeholder meetings where strategies for compliance were outlined, noting the chaotic nature of current bus operations on the corridor. The plan includes restructuring bus operations, deploying high-capacity buses, and introducing an e-ticketing system, among other measures.
Read Also: Lagos to shut Akiogun, Admiralty Circle Lekki road for 10days
The officials outlined phased implementation of the restructuring, urging operators to register with the Ministry of Transportation within two weeks to receive allocated routes. They warned of fines and vehicle forfeiture for non-compliance, stressing the government’s commitment to transport reform laws.
The initiative, set to pilot on the Lekki-Epe Expressway, received support from union leaders and other stakeholders who signed a communique affirming their cooperation.
In a related development, the Lagos State Government announced the introduction of an e-call up system effective August 1, 2024, to manage truck movements within the Lekki-Epe Free Trade Zone corridor. This system aims to prevent congestion caused by truck operations and enhance efficiency in logistics, supporting the area’s economic activities.
Transportation officials emphasized the importance of the e-call up system in synchronizing truck movements accessing the Lekki Deep Seaport and industries in the corridor. They urged compliance from truck operators to ensure its effectiveness in facilitating smooth traffic flow and sustainable development in the region.