By Seun Ibiyemi
The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation has reaffirmed its commitment to stakeholder engagement following the launch of the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) on the Lekki–Epe Corridor, aimed at restructuring public transport operations and improving traffic flow.
The reform restricts operations along the corridor to medium and high-capacity buses while limiting mini buses, popularly called “Korope,” to inner routes. The policy recently sparked public debate, including protests by some mini bus operators.Lagos extends free eye screening, health checks to NDLEA officers
To address concerns and clarify implementation, the Ministry, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, convened a strategic meeting with the Lekki Estate Residents and Stakeholders Association (LERSA).
Giwa explained that the BRI is anchored on the Lagos Strategic Transportation Master Plan, which prioritizes structured, regulated, and sustainable mass transit systems across road, rail, and waterways.
“Instead of having ten smaller buses operating independently on a route, one large-capacity bus can transport the same number of passengers. This translates to fewer vehicles on the road, reduced traffic congestion, lower environmental pollution, and improved economic productivity,” Giwa said.Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway
He added that prior to the reform, transport operations along the corridor were largely unregulated, creating safety and planning challenges. Government intervention, he said, ensures accountability, data-driven planning, and improved service delivery.
Giwa disclosed that transport unions and stakeholders were engaged prior to the pilot phase and encouraged to register in structured groups, enabling QR code issuance, data capture, and operational monitoring. Ten transport groups have now registered and are participating in the pilot. Operators yet to register were urged to comply to ensure inclusivity.
The Ministry called on residents, transporters, and other stakeholders along the Lekki–Epe corridor to embrace the initiative as a necessary step toward a safer, more efficient, and globally competitive transportation system. It reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing dialogue and constructive engagement as Lagos advances its transportation transformation agenda.
