The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has noted the repeated claims of transformation in Lagos State’s transportation sector. While the government continues to highlight projects such as the Blue Line Rail and the expansion of major roads, the daily realities faced by millions of Lagosians on the streets paint a more sobering picture.
Across the state, commuters spend an average of 4 to 6 hours daily in traffic, one of the longest in Africa, according to mobility and productivity studies. What should be a 30-minute journey frequently stretches into three or more hours, reducing work efficiency, increasing stress, and wasting valuable man hours that cost Lagos economy billions of naira annually.
The cost of transportation has also risen sharply. Since 2023, intra-city bus fares have increased by over 150%, with many routes now costing between ₦500 and ₦1,000 daily for round trips. This surge has made it difficult for low and middle income earners to afford regular commuting. Meanwhile, the ban on motorcycles and tricycles in several areas has left residents in densely populated communities like Alimosho, Ikorodu, and Eti-Osa stranded or forced to walk long distances.
Despite efforts such as the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) scheme and the recent rail projects, the system remains inefficient, overcrowded, and poorly maintained. In many cases, commuters wait for hours due to limited buses, poor scheduling, and fuel scarcity.
Transportation is not a luxury; it is a lifeline. A true people centered government must make mobility efficient, safe, and affordable for all. The ADC believes Lagos deserves more than traffic statistics and press briefings, it deserves a fully integrated, multimodal transport system that connects rail, road, and waterways effectively.
We therefore call on the Lagos State Government to:
1. Invest in public friendly transport infrastructure that prioritizes accessibility and affordability.
2. Review the BRT fare structure to ease the burden on low income earners.
3. Expand and maintain inner city roads to reduce gridlock.
4. Promote mass transit electrification and renewable alternatives to reduce fuel costs and emissions.
Your Excellency, development must be measured not by the number of roads constructed but by how many people can move safely and affordably across the city.
The African Democratic Congress urges Lagosians to look beyond propaganda and support a party that puts people before politics. With visionary leadership and accountability, ADC is ready to drive Lagos into a new era of smart, inclusive, and sustainable transportation.
HON. (ALHAJI) RAHMAN OWOKONIRAN
ADC MEDIA NETWORK 2.0
