- The Lagos State recently released its new transport policy
- The policy aims to transform the transport sector in Lagos
- Installation of CCTV cameras and introduction of transport police are among the steps outlined
The Lagos State government recently released its transport policy, a comprehensive plan that shows the phases in which the policy will be implemented: within two years, two to five years, five to 10 years, and up to 15 years.
The governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, stated while launching the transport policy in May 2024 that “The Lagos State Transport Policy is built upon a foundation of inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation. It embodies our commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable transportation options for all residents, regardless of their socio-economic status or location within the state. Moreover, it emphasizes the integration of our various modes of transport system.
“When we embarked on this journey four years ago, we made a solemn pledge to the people of Lagos: to revolutionize our transportation system, alleviate traffic congestion, and create a safer, more efficient, and sustainable environment for all. Today, as we unveil this policy, we are taking a significant step towards fulfilling that promise.”
Transport policies Lagos wants to implement in 2 years
Here are the policies to expect within the next two years in the Lagos transport sector:
- CCTV cameras at key transportation points
The Lagos State Government will increase the deployment of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at key transportation points around the state as part of its attempts to improve traffic management.
These cameras will be installed at bus stops, taxi ranks, transport interchanges, stations, freight yards, and areas around interchanges.
According to the policy, this initiative aims to complement the proposed modern Traffic Control Centre (TCC), ensuring smoother traffic flow and minimizing disruptions.
- Lagos Transport Police
The Lagos State Government, in partnership with the Nigeria Police, will establish the Lagos Transport Police (LTP) to protect the safety of passengers, operators, and service providers.
In addition, the LTP will oversee the proposed control centre for monitoring CCTV feeds, as well as smaller control centres within important interchanges.
- Star rating system
The Lagos State Government plans to implement a star grading system to improve the quality and control of auto repair workshops. This approach will assess workshops based on the condition of their facilities, equipment, personnel capabilities, and general infrastructure.
First, the government will assess current mechanic villages and roadside repair shops to determine which should be closed immediately and set specific periods for others. Then, they will evaluate automobile repair facilities that are not located in mechanic villages or along the roadside to determine their capacity enhancement requirements.
- Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS)
The Lagos State Government plans to implement intelligent transport systems (ITS) to achieve maximum transport management. This project entails creating a state-of-the-art Traffic Control Center (TCC) and implementing Area Traffic Control (ATC) with dynamic cycle times and interconnected signals.
Furthermore, Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) will support ITS by enabling Automatic Incident Detection (AID) to reduce response times and streamline traffic management plans. Also, real-time traffic information from Variable Message Signs (VMS) will enable drivers to reroute and prevent accidents.
- Testing of Lagos State-registered freight vehicles annually
The Lagos State Government will enhance the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) to conduct yearly inspections and guarantee the quality of registered freight vehicles.
After completing these VIS upgrades, yearly VIS testing will be mandatory for all tankers, trucks, flatbed trucks, container trucks, and vans registered in Lagos State.
- Expansion of 'cowry' ticketing to all public transportation modes
The ‘cowry’ ticket system will be expanded to include more modes of public transportation.
In addition to improving users’ experience with state-regulated public transportation services, this policy will be extended to other public transportation modes.
- Complete construction arrangements and award contract for Fourth Mainland Bridge
The state government intends to finish the Fourth Mainland Bridge building plans and award the contract within the next two years.
This will drastically reduce travel time between Lekki Peninsula/Victoria Island and Ikorodu.
Additionally, it will help reduce traffic jams on the Third Mainland and Eko Bridges, thereby decreasing users' travel time and costs. This project is also anticipated to provide many jobs due to the private sector's engagement.