Several attempts and efforts had been made to enhance rapid and smooth transportation experience in Lagos state by the governments, both past and present. Critics opined that there is still work to do. The current government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has delved into a novel project targeting an improved transportation sector, aligning with a popular saying there is room for improvement. Lagosians from Ikorodu to Mushin to Badagry, from Epe to Ojo, from Lekki-Ajah to Ajagunle, from IyanaPaja to Okokomaiko, from Anthony-Maryland to Ikeja-Agege, and from ever bustling Balogun market on the mainland to Oyingbo and to Alaba International Market yearn for change and reforms away from the nightmare standstill traffic jam.
The launch of the Blue Line and Red Line rails has sent waves of excitement among Lagos residents. In this report, Korede Abdullah, Africa Health Report Southwest correspondent, examines the project’s potential.
Hope in the Horizon
Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub with more than 20 million people, is plagued by a myriad of transportation challenges that have become a perpetual thorn in the flesh of its residents. The city’s roads are notorious for their congested state, with commuters often spending hours stuck in traffic, inching along at a snail’s pace.
This gridlock is not only frustrating but also has severe economic implications, as it leads to wasted man-hours, increased fuel consumption, and a decline in productivity. Furthermore, the absence of a reliable and efficient public transportation system exacerbates the problem, forcing many to rely on private vehicles, which in turn contributes to the congestion.
To address these challenges, the Lagos State Government has been investing heavily in transportation infrastructure, including the construction of new roads, flyovers, and public transportation systems. However, despite these efforts, the city’s transportation woes persist, and it is clear that a more holistic approach is needed to tackle the problem.
This includes implementing policies to reduce the number of private vehicles on the road, improving public transportation services, and promoting alternative modes of transportation, such as cycling and walking.
Rail Revolution
Lagosians have been ecstatic about the much-vaunted rail project which they believe is poised to revolutionize the city’s transportation landscape, providing a much-needed solution to the perennial congestion that has plagued the metropolis for decades. Some Lagos residents who spoke with Africa Health Report (AHR) are of the view that the modern rail line is the best thing to have happened to the state.
“By offering a fast, efficient, and reliable mode of transportation, the rail project is expected to significantly reduce travel times, ease traffic congestion, and promote economic growth by connecting key commercial and residential areas.”, said Funke Cole, a public affairs analyst.
Ms Cole added that the project’s potential impact on the local economy is substantial, by predicting increased trade, investment, and job creation, which she said will ultimately transform Lagos into a more competitive and attractive business hub.
Railway Renaissance
Lagos has officially entered a new era in transportation with the introduction of the blue and red line rail, a groundbreaking project that promises to revolutionize the way people navigate the city. This milestone achievement marks a significant turning point in the state’s transportation history, offering a faster, safer, and more efficient alternative to the city’s notoriously congested roads, and poised to transform Lagos into a more modern, efficient, and livable metropolis.
Tracks of Progress
Nigeria’s rail transportation history dates back to the colonial era, with the first railway line constructed in 1898 by the British colonial government. The railway system played a crucial role in the country’s economic development, facilitating the transportation of goods and people across the vast territory. In Lagos, the railway system was instrumental in the growth of the city, connecting it to other parts of the country and enabling the transportation of goods and services.
Over the years, Nigeria’s rail transportation system has undergone significant transformations, with various governments investing in its development and expansion. In recent years, efforts have been made to revamp the rail system, with the introduction of new trains and the rehabilitation of existing infrastructure. The latest development is the introduction of the blue and red line rail in Lagos, which promises to revolutionize transportation in the city and mark a new era in Nigeria’s rail transportation history.
Lagos Rail Revival
The concept of a rapid transit system in Lagos State dates back to 1983, conceived by Alhaji Lateef Jakande, but was scrapped in 1984 by General Muhammadu Buhari when his military junta staged a coup against the civilian government at a significant financial loss of over $78.
The project was revived in 2003 by then-governor Bola Tinubu, with an initial proposed cost of $135 million for the Greater Lagos Urban Transportation Project, implemented by LAMATA, which initially focused on a Bus Rapid Transit system before shifting attention to the Blue Line and Red Line in 2008.
Red Line Rail: Transforming Transportation
The Lagos Red Line Rail has been described by Lagosians as a significant infrastructure development aimed at improving transportation within the city. The 37-kilometer rail line connects key neighbourhoods and markets, with the first phase, a 27km stretch, including eight strategically located stations.
The Red Line is designed to improve transportation efficiency and capacity, reduce traffic, and stimulate economic growth.
Construction of the Red Line began on April 15, 2021, and the first phase was inaugurated on February 29, 2024. Regular passenger service commenced on October 15, 2024.
The second phase is currently under construction and will extend the line to Marina Station, connecting it to the Blue Line. The Red Line shares tracks with the Lagos–Ibadan route operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).
The Red Line is intended to run 20 daily trips and transport up to 500,000 passengers per day. There are plans to extend the Red Line from Ikeja Station to Murtala Muhammed International Airport and build four additional lines to expand the city’s transportation network. The Red Line currently operates on diesel power, utilizing a system called Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU).
The Lagos Red Line Rail is a major part of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) system, aimed at transforming transportation in the city. With its efficient and reliable service, the Red Line is set to reduce traffic congestion, stimulate economic growth, and improve the overall quality of life for Lagos residents.
Lagos Blue Line
The Lagos Blue Line, an electric rapid transit line, is a vital component of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit system. After years of delays due to funding issues, the Blue Line finally began service on September 4, 2023.
Initially, the project was approved in 2008 with an estimated completion date of 2011, but it took over a decade to come to fruition.
In its first year of operation, the Blue Line carried approximately 2 million passengers, demonstrating its potential to transform transportation in Lagos. To meet growing demand, the frequency of train services was increased from 54 to 72 daily services starting in August 2024.
The Blue Line is expected to continue playing a crucial role in reducing traffic congestion and improving mobility in Lagos.
Transforming Transportation in Lagos
The Lagos State government is financing the construction of the Blue Line, a rail project aimed at reducing travel time and costs for commuters.
According to LAMATA Managing Director, Abimbola Akinajo, the proposed advantages of the Blue Line include avoiding traffic jams, which can take hours to navigate, and providing a cheaper alternative.
“For instance, a journey that would have taken two hours in traffic can now be completed in just 15 minutes. The trains are electrified, and security measures have been put in place to prevent vandalism.”, Akinajo stated.
The contract for the project was awarded to the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), with advisory services provided by CPCS Transcom Limited.
The first phase, which spans 13 kilometers from Lagos Marina to Mile 2, was opened for testing in December 2022 and began passenger service on September 4, 2023.
The second phase, which will connect Mile 2 to Okokomaiko, is expected to commence construction after the first phase opens and is anticipated to be completed by 2027.
Impressive Milestone
According to Governor Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos Blue Rail Line achieved a remarkable feat, transporting over 75,000 people in just a month of its launch, with over 350 trips completed as of October 5.
This impressive milestone has sparked widespread praise from residents and commuters, who hail the project as a game-changer for the city’s transportation landscape.
“The Blue Rail Line has been a blessing for me,” says Mrs. Kehinde Samuel, a commuter told our correspondent. “I can now get to work on time without worrying about traffic.” Mr. Johnson Akpan, another commuter, adds, “The rail line has reduced my travel time significantly, and I’m impressed with the efficiency and comfort it offers.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has been commended for its vision and commitment to delivering this project, which is expected to transform the lives of millions of Lagos residents.
Lagos Residents Hail Rail System
The launch of the Blue and Red Line rails in Lagos has been met with excitement and optimism from residents, who are hailing the reduced travel times and increased economic opportunities brought about by the project.
The Blue Line, which spans 13 kilometers from Lagos Marina to Mile 2, is projected to reduce travel times from two hours to just 15 minutes, while the Red Line, which connects key neighbourhoods and markets, has improved transportation efficiency and capacity.
Lagos residents, such as Mrs. Abimbola Adeyemi, a trader at the Mile 2 market, are thrilled with the development. “I can now get to the market in just a few minutes, instead of spending hours in traffic,” she exclaimed.
The rail project is also expected to boost economic opportunities in the state, with many residents anticipating an increase in business and job opportunities.
“The rail project is a game-changer for Lagos,” said Mr. Tunde Oyedele, a resident of Ikeja. “It will not only reduce travel times but also create new business opportunities and jobs.”
Another resident, Mrs. Funke Akinola who spoke with our correspondent, praised the government for investing in the project. “We are grateful to the government for investing in this project. It shows that they are committed to improving our lives and making Lagos a better place to live.”
Rail Project Set to Create Jobs
The launch of the Blue and Red Line rails in Lagos is poised to have a significant impact on the local economy, with experts predicting a surge in job creation and increased economic activity.
The project is expected to generate employment opportunities in various sectors, including transportation, construction, and services, thereby reducing unemployment rates and boosting economic growth.
Additionally, the improved transportation network is likely to attract businesses and investments to the state, further stimulating economic activity and cementing Lagos’ position as a major economic hub in Nigeria.
Overcoming Challenges and Controversies
The Blue Rail project in Lagos has been marred by several challenges and controversies, including funding issues, lack of constant electricity to power the rail, fear of electrocution, land acquisition disputes, and concerns about the project’s impact on local communities.
Despite these hurdles, the project has made significant progress. However, experts warn that potential risks still linger, including construction delays, cost overruns, and operational challenges.
“To mitigate these risks, the government must address the underlying issues, ensure a stable power supply, and engage with local communities to minimize disruptions and maximize benefits.”, noted Alhaji Ibrahim Yusuf, a media practitioner and Lagos resident.
