By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Government has refuted reports of a planned ban on commercial buses, popularly known as danfos, from plying the Lekki-Epe corridor.
According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, in a statement on Monday, he said the government’s Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) is set to restructure commercial bus operations and enhance public commuting.
Giwa explained that the BRI would introduce mass transit buses for the Lekki-Epe corridor, while danfo buses that meet the standards of the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) would operate as mid-capacity buses.
Korope buses that meet the standards would be integrated into the First Mile Last Mile services to serve the interior roads along the stretch from Obalende/CMS to Ajah (specifically Eleko).
The Special Adviser emphasised that passenger comfort is a top priority, and an e-ticketing system would be introduced to address the issue of illegal passenger pickups and unauthorised bus stops.
He also noted that a stakeholders’ meeting was held on June 27th, which included heads of transport unions, key transport operators, and officials from the State’s Ministry of Transportation.
Giwa stated that a communique was signed at the stakeholders’ meeting, addressing all doubts and concerns. He assured that there is no cause for alarm and that the initiative has prompted transport operators to register for new franchises with the Ministry of Transportation.
“To clarify and prevent any misunderstandings, it is essential to highlight that the forthcoming initiative is designed to enhance public commuting and better serve the residents of Lagos,” he said.
Giwa said the primary goal of the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) was to restructure commercial bus operations, saying that as a pilot project, the BRI would introduce mass transit buses for the Lekki-Epe corridor.
“Danfo buses that conform to the standards of the VIS will operate as Mid-capacity buses while Korope buses that also meets the standards will be integrated into the First Mile Last Mile services to serve the interior roads along the stretch from Obalende/CMS to Ajah (specifically Eleko).
“Danfo and Korope buses will undergo roadworthiness checks, and drivers will receive professional training at our driving institute. Designated routes will be assigned, and compliance will be strictly monitored.
“Passenger comfort is a top priority; therefore, an e-ticketing system will be introduced. The issue of illegal passenger pickups and unauthorised bus stops will be effectively addressed,” Giwa stated.
Giwa said a stakeholders’ meeting was held on June 27th, including heads of transport unions, key transport operators, officials from the State’s Ministry of Transportation, and the Special Adviser and the Permanent Secretary of Transportation.
“A communique was signed at the stakeholders’ meeting, addressing all doubts and concerns. There is no cause for alarm. The initiative has prompted Transport Operators to register for new franchises with the Ministry of Transportation,” he stated.