Collaboration to position Lagos as Africa’s innovative transport model – Osiyemi
By Seun Ibiyemi
The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, has said that the state transport sector can become a model for integrated and innovative transport system through coordinated collaboration.
Osiyemi said this at the maiden Nigeria transport summit organised by the Transportation Correspondents Association of Nigeria (TCAN), themed: ‘Intermodal Transport: Prospects and Challenges.’ in Thursday in Lagos.
He said the collaboration should be between the public and private sectors, as well as support from federal authorities and multilateral agencies.
The commissioner said the state had established the Lagos State Transport Policy.
“The document serves as a roadmap toward a modern, multimodal, and sustainable transportation system that supports the economic growth and well-being of Lagos residents.
“We are committed to transforming public transportation in Lagos, making it a reliable, affordable, and environmentally sustainable option for all.
“Our transport policy places a strong emphasis on private sector participation. We recognise that no government can tackle the complex challenges of transportation alone.
“By encouraging private investment, especially in public transport systems like the Bus Rapid Transit and rail and waterways infrastructure, we are creating a more resilient and sustainable transportation framework,” he said.
He noted that the Lagos vision was to provide a modern transport system with equitable access to all residents in an environmentally sustainable and economically cost-effective manner.
According to him, the state government recognises that transport is the backbone of any city’s development.
He added that the state government would create an integrated, safe, reliable, efficient, affordable, and environmentally-friendly transport system.
“Environmental sustainability is at the heart of our transport policy. We are encouraging the use of clean fuels for public and private transportation, reducing our carbon footprint, and promoting infrastructure resilience to climate change.
“Moreover, we are working on tightening vehicle emission standards to ensure that Lagos remains a liveable and environmentally sound megacity,” he said.
The commissioner said that a vital component of the policy was safety.
He added the aim was to establish the Lagos Surface Transport Safety Agency to enhance the safety of all transport infrastructure and users.
He noted that a dedicated Transport Police Unit would be set up to ensure the safety of travellers and service providers across the state.
