Consultant, Corporate Communication, Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, Mr. Kolawole Ojelabi, made this known on Thursday in a press statement.

He said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu would lead his executive council members and other dignitaries on the passenger operations launch and ride with commuters on the first fee-paying passenger trip.

Engr. Akinajo stated that train services will commence daily from Agbado at 6.00 am.

Consequently, the schedule for the train service has been adjusted with passenger movement commencing from 6.00 a.m. from Agbado.

Before now, trips have emanated from Oyingbo at 9.00 a.m.

The first train therefore got to Agbado at 10.07 a.m.

The adjusted timetable foreshadows upcoming commercial passenger operations commencing on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

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Managing Director of LAMATA, Engr. Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, explained that the new timetable was the outcome of data gathered through the series of tests, including that for the non-fee-paying passengers.

According to Engr. Akinajo, the new timetable gives priority to the origin trips from Agbado where riders live and work at Ikeja, Oshodi, and Lagos Island.

For passengers whose journeys terminate on Lagos Island, buses will be available at Oyingbo bus terminal for them to complete their journeys.

It would be recalled that infrastructure for the Red Line was commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on February 29, 2024.

The Red Line’s first phase spanning 27 kilometres has eight stations at Oyingbo, Yaba, Mushin, Oshodi, Ikeja, Agege, Iju and Agbado.

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The MoU, witnessed by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Olawale Edun; Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Engr. Olufemi Daramola; Managing Director of Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, and top officials of the Federal Government and China Harbour Engineering Company, CHEC, was signed during the ongoing Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, FOCAC, in Beijing, China.

The Ministry of Finance Incorporated and China Harbour Engineering Company will source the funding to design, finance, operate and maintain the project.

The Green Line Rail Project, when completed, will be an addition to the Blue and Red Line rails already in operation in Lagos State, commuting thousands of residents on a daily basis.

Speaking after signing the MoU, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the Green Line Rail would redefine public transportation and transform the Lagos State transport landscape, linking key areas like Victoria Island, Lekki, Ajah, and more.

He said, “Today, we signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) and China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) to bring the ambitious Green Line Rail project to life.

“The Green Line is a 68km rail line designed to run from the Lekki Free Zone to Marina, connecting with the Blue Line at Marina. This new line will transform our transport landscape, linking key areas like Victoria Island, Lekki, Ajah, and more.

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“This rail line is projected to carry over 500,000 passengers daily at launch, rising to over a million as demand grows. With the Ministry of Finance Incorporated and CHEC leading the design, financing, and operation, the Green Line will redefine public transport in Lagos.

“The Green Line complements our existing rail lines, including the Red Line, which has already begun partial operations. Together, these lines form the backbone of our Strategic Transport Masterplan, designed to create a fast, efficient, and connected Lagos.”

The governor added: “Just yesterday, we celebrated the one-year anniversary of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line, which has served an impressive two million passengers without significant disruptions.

“This success shows that Lagos is ready for more. We are ready for the future. In August 2024, the Blue Line increased daily trips from 54 to 72, reducing travel time between Marina and Mile 2 from 30 to 18 minutes.

“The impact of these rail lines goes beyond transportation. They are catalysts for economic growth, connecting communities, reducing travel times, and enhancing the quality of life for millions. We are building a city that works.

“This is Lagos, and we will continue to lead. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support and complete endorsement of this project. His commitment not only reflects his dedication to our shared vision but also serves as a powerful catalyst for its success.”

The Green Rail Line, which will connect with the Blue Line at Marina, is designed to run from the iconic Marina Station through Victoria Island, Lekki Phase 1, Ajah, Lekki 2, Ogombo, Elepetu, Eluju, Lekki Airport and Lekki Free Trade Zone.

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The Blue Line infrastructure completion was commissioned by former President Muhammadu Buhari on 23 January 2023.

It went through a time of testing before passenger operations were flagged off by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on September 4, 2023.

The Blue Line, which is powered by electricity, is the first of its kind in the West African sub-region.

Reflecting on the one year of Blue Line operations, the Managing Director, Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, Engr. Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, said the state government was thrilled with the safety trajectory of the rail line, saying, “we have been able to activate the vision of Mr. Governor for intermodal integrated transport.

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“On this momentous occasion, we reflect on the significant impact this transformative project has had on Lagos and its residents,” Akinajo added.

The Blue Line connects Lagosians from Marina to Mile 2, providing a reliable and efficient transportation option.

Commuters, including white-collar workers, entrepreneurs, students, and tourists, have embraced the rail system, contributing to the growth of the state’s economy.

Over the past year, the Blue Line has served an impressive two million passengers without significant disruptions.

“In August 2024, we increased the daily frequency of trips from 54 to 72, reducing travel time between Marina and Mile 2 from about 30 to 18 minutes.

“As we look ahead, LAMATA remains dedicated to expanding our rail network and improving the overall transportation experience in Lagos. We are grateful for the continued support of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration, our partners, and the people of Lagos,” Akinajo added.

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The president also witnessed the signing of the contract for Phase 2 of the LRMT Red Line project by the Managing Director of Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, and the Chairman of CCECC Nigeria Limited, Jason Zhang.

The president, before departing for a state visit to Qatar, embarked on an inaugural train ride from the Ikeja station to the Agege station, accompanied by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor of the State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; some state governors; members of the Federal and State Executive Councils; members of the Federal and State Legislative Assemblies; Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, and a select group of journalists.

Addressing a gathering of Nigerians at the train station in Ikeja, President Tinubu directed the Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa’idu Alkali, to ensure that the federal and subnational governments strengthen their collaboration to provide reliable, efficient, and affordable transportation systems for all Nigerians across the country.

”It is my singular pleasure to inaugurate the first phase of the LRMT Red Line to the glory of God Almighty and for the benefit of the people.

”Today, I am seriously honoured that I am a Lagosian and the first to be President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

”My promise is not to let you down. We will arrive at the destination with joy, happiness, and prosperity; God willing,” he said.

Reflecting on his tenure as the former governor of Lagos State, when the vision of a modern and effective public transportation system in the state was conceived, President Tinubu described the project as a dream realized and a fulfillment of years of hard work and dedication by successive governments.

”I am very happy indeed that today is a day to remember in Nigeria’s infrastructural history, particularly Lagos, the centre of excellence. Today is evidence that it is good to dream, and it is a serious validation of democracy as a form of government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

”When you put people at the centre of your vision and planning, you will realise the value of democracy.

”Twenty-five years ago, I was elected to lead Nigeria’s most populous state. From the very beginning, my team and I toiled day and night with a very bare cupboard and amidst pervasive deficiency to implement a developmental vision that would transform Lagos into an economic powerhouse. Today, we are realizing that dream.

”The momentum of greatness we kickstarted a quarter of a century ago has become unstoppable progress. It is not a crime to dream and dream big. Just stay focused and make development a central focus,’’ he said.

President Tinubu commended the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), the urban transport agency he established over 20 years ago, for its exemplary performance and implored LAMATA to sustain the momentum in completing all other phases of the Red Line project, as well as the full execution of the broader rail blueprint of the state.

He called on Nigerians to embrace change and work towards national progress.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eradicating corruption and called on labour unions to refrain from disruptive actions.

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”Some labour unions should understand that no matter how we cling to our freedom and rights, to call for strikes within the first nine months of a new administration is unacceptable.

”If you want to directly participate in the electoral process, wait until 2027, if not, maintain the peace. Labour is not the only voice of Nigeria,” the president affirmed.

Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that the first phase of the project, executed by the State Government, spans 37 kilometers and shares the track of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, NRC, Lagos-Ibadan modernization project from Ebute Metta to Agbado with stations at Oyingbo, Yaba, Mushin, Oshodi, Ikeja, Agege, and Iju.

According to the governor, phase one of the project will transport 750,000 passengers daily at inception and 1.1 million passengers daily once it is fully operational.

”All the stations are live and ready to receive passengers,” Governor Sanwo-Olu announced.

While speaking to reporters aboard the train during the inaugural ride, President Tinubu assured Nigerians that their lives will only become more enjoyable as modern amenities are built across the entire nation under his progressive leadership.

‘‘This is very efficient and comfortable, and I am happy. Our transportation system must be all about the people. We have cut down imports on PMS by almost 50 percent. We need mass transit to complement the daily efforts of citizens and make things easier for our people. And this is what this is all about. It is about the people. It is about democracy. We are happy about it,’’ President Tinubu stated.

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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday, commissioned the T-shape overpass that will serve as an alternative route to access Ebute Metta, Oyingbo, Yaba and Surulere.

The project, undertaken by Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, has brought traffic relief to motorists and commuters plying Yaba, as it has solved congestion and delays associated with railway level crossing, which hitherto hindered free movement in the vicinity.

The overpass bridge also eliminated pedestrian and vehicular interference on the rail tracks, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and collisions between trains and vehicles.

A euphoric crowd of residents thronged the ceremony where the governor and members of the state’s cabinet gathered to formally inaugurate the project.

Sanwo-Olu said the event marked the beginning of the completion phase of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit, LRMT, Red Line, which spans 37 kilometres from Agbado to Oyingbo.

He stressed that the delivery of the infrastructure bore testament to his administration’s determination to develop and proffer sustainable solutions to transportation challenges facing the state.

The governor said the remaining overpasses at Ikeja, Mushin and Oyingbo were at their completion stages, disclosing that the bridges would be opened to traffic before the end of December 2023.

He said: “Today, we are witnessing another leap in the fulfilment of our promise under the traffic management and transportation pillar of our development agenda. Three years ago, we undertook the task to construct four bridges across rail lines between Oyingbo and Ikeja, with the objective to bring relief to our teeming residents by reducing congestion and improving travel time as well as the cost of commuting. Over the years, we recorded avoidable fatal accidents on railway crossings, most of the time due to human errors.

“Today, we are formally inaugurating a key component of the infrastructure projects initiated to bring about traffic improvement and solutions to the challenges encountered. This event is, therefore, significant because it signifies the completion phase of the Red Line project. Before the end of the year, other overpass bridges at Ikeja, Mushin and Oyingbo will be formally commissioned and there will be no more occurrence of train-vehicle accidents at these locations.”

Sanwo-Olu said the delivery of the Yaba flyover reflected his government’s plan for an integrated transportation system, stressing that the infrastructure had turned the area to a hub of rapid bus and rail transportation.

In the coming weeks, the governor said, the Red Line trains would begin pre-inauguration test run, as the construction races to the end.

That, he said, would be followed by commissioning and formal operations of the metro line in 2024.

Sanwo-Olu urged road users to protect the infrastructure from vandals and arsonists, while also warning against turning the bridge to a trading platform.

He served last notice to all those engaging in illegal trading on the railway tracks, instructing law enforcement officers to ensure compliance.

He said: “These projects have been implemented at huge cost. We should not feel unconcerned when societal enemies are bent on destroying our commonwealth. I ask all road users to protect this bridge from vandals and other societal enemies.

“Let me reiterate that this bridge is not a market place; the steps, ramps, and sidewalks are not for displaying wares. Our law enforcement agencies have been given strict instructions to ensure zero tolerance for any misuse of this facility.”

Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said Lagos Strategic Transport Master Plan, STMP, was designed to provide up to 25 transport imperatives, which include creation of multiple transport choices for residents, introduction of integrated transport system, making the transit system attractive, convenient, affordable and accessible, reducing urban transportation-induced emissions.

He said the infrastructure would optimise the usage of the road network and aid urban transport planning.

“The STMP also provided for a long term financing of the investment plan,” the commissioner said.

LAMATA Managing Director, Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, said three out of the four remaining bridges had been completed and awaiting commissioning.

The only outstanding project, she said, is the Mushin overpass, which is due for completion by December.

“In the coming weeks, Mr. Governor will be commissioning the remaining overpasses one after the other, until the main project, the Red Line, is commissioned for operations. The operation of the Red Line and its ancillary infrastructure will have an exponential effect on the economy of the state,” she said.

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The announcement was made on Wednesday at a press conference by the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, Engr. Abimbola Akinajo.

Akinajo, who took reporters on a guided ride and tour of the physical infrastructure of the Blue Line Rail from the Marina Station to the National Arts Theatre Station in Iganmu, said Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, would take the inaugural ride on the train at 9 a.m. on Monday, September 4, before other passengers begin to ride.

She said partial passenger operations would start on Tuesday from 6:30 am to 10 a.m. for the morning peak and the afternoon Peak from 4 pm to 9:30 pm, adding that the operations would start with 12 trips for two weeks, which would later be increased to 76 trips per day.

Akinajo disclosed that though the train is electric, it would run on locomotive for the first four weeks of operation to allow the electric system to come up fully and sync properly with the physical infrastructure, adding that the plan is to allow passengers to get familiar with the rail system.

She said despite the train running on locomotive for the first four weeks, the tracks would remain energised so that passengers are not allowed to cross them.

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The LAMATA boss said about 150,000 passengers were expected to board the train daily.

“The train would run 12 trips in two schedules for now – 6.30 am to 10 am (morning peak) and 4.30 pm – 9 pm (evening peak). The train will stop for 90 seconds at each station. It will run 76 trips, from 5.30 am to 11 pm, when it becomes fully operational in four weeks,” she said.

The full length of the train trip from Marina – Mile 2, according to Akinajo would cost N750 but noted that the 50 per cent discount announced by Governor Sanwo-Olu on all Lagos public transportation rides also applied to the train ride.

She said passengers could only access the service with their cowry cards, noting that cash or paper tickets would not be accepted.

Akinajo, who warned against eating and drinking on the train, said adequate security had been put in place for the security of lives and property, noting that anyone with criminal intent would be arrested and handed over to the Police as there were about 30 cameras along the tracks.

She said: “A full Journey from Marina to Mile 2 will cost N750 and Zonal fares will be between N400 and N500 for people not making the complete full trip. The transportation palliative announced by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will also cover the Train system, meaning that the highest fare for the full trip will be N375.

“We are going to put safety measures in place. There are over 300 CCTV cameras across the whole Blue Line Rail and over 30 cameras monitoring the tracks alone. Command and Control centres are also available in all stations. Plain cloth security agents and officers of the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps will ride with passengers at all times. Any altercation on the train will not be tolerated. Vandalism also will not be tolerated.”

Speaking on the initial delay in the commencement of the Blue line rail, which was earlier scheduled to commence operation in August, Akinajo said the delay was caused by prevailing circumstances around import and export.

She, however, noted that LAMATA was committed to starting operations on September 4 without any further delay since all the necessary things have been put in place for the operations of the Blue line rail.

It would be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari on January 24, 2023, in the company of Governor Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, commissioned the first phase of the Blue line rail, which runs from Marina to Mile 2 and also witnessed the signing of the commencement of Phase 2 of the project from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko.

The Blue line rail, part of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit, will run 27.5 km from Marina to Okokomaiko, with 13 stations and an end-to-end journey time of 35 minutes.

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The Consultant, Corporate Communication of LAMATA, Mr Kolawole Ojelabi, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

Ojelabi said that the completion of the infrastructure was in fulfilment of the promise made by the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide  Sanwo-Olu.

He said that Sanwo-Olu had promised that the project would be completed in the last quarter of 2022, ahead of the commencement of passenger operations in the first quarter of 2023.

He explained that the LRMT Blue Line was one of the six rail lines and monorail prescribed for Lagos in the state’s Strategic Transport Master Plan, STMP.

According to him, the LRMT Blue Line is a 27-kilometer rail system from Marina to Okokomaiko.

Ojelabi said that construction had been divided into phases for ease of implementation and is expected to move more than 500,000 passengers when the entire line is completed.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu had, while campaigning for the office of Governor, promised to complete the infrastructure for the first phase of the LRMT Blue Line and bring it to passenger operation.

“The first phase is a 13-kilometre stretch from Marina to Mile 2 and has five stations at Mile 2, Suru-Alaba, Orile Iganmu, National Theatre and Marina. It is expected to move about 200,000 passengers daily,” he added.

Ojelabi said that the rail system would be powered by electricity from an independent power plant to be purposely built for its operation.

The Managing Director of LAMATA,  Mrs Abimbola Akinajo, said that the completion of the infrastructure for the first phase of the LRMT Blue Line was a testimonial of the importance of public transportation to Governor  Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES agenda.

Source: NAN

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The Managing Director of LAMATA, Abimbola Akinajo, gave the warning ahead of the inauguration of the rail line by the state government.

Akinajo who spoke in a video message to the people of the state said they should use the overhead bridges and other exits provided once the train starts functioning.

According to the LAMATA boss, being a facility that runs on electricity, it could electrocute anyone that might have contact with it.

Her words: “We all know that we have publicised that the Blue Line will be an electrified rail system, which means the electrification will be along the track.

READ ALSO: Sanwo-Olu: Lagos Blue Line rail project at 90 per cent completion

“For us that means there are no tolerance.

“If you want to cross from one side to the other, you must make use of the overhead bridges.

“This is a necessity for all of us to understand.

“We have a government that is very responsible and we have fenced all the alignment for the Blue Line to ensure that people do not cross it.

“But we see time and time again that people go there and cut the fences and they run across.

“This is fine until we electrify and we need to understand that this is not acceptable.

“Not because LAMATA is saying don’t do it, but because it is a matter of life and death.

“It is a health and safety issue.

“Anywhere in the world this is how it functions and if we want to develop, we need to begin to understand that this is the way we are heading.

“For a sustainable rail system that is good for emission, electrified rail is the way forward and when your rail is electrified, then we must not interface with it.

“We ask this and we ask that people be responsible and understand that it is mandatory that nobody crosses the track.

“We have bothered to put pedestrian crossing, access for physically challenged and therefore we have no reason to cross the track.

“We just ask that the people respect this and respect the rails because if we don’t, we would find ourselves in very dire situation.”

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