Lagos State lawmakers are working to establish a legal framework for the creation, management, and operation of a state-owned agency for its railway services.
This development, which came to light during a one-day public hearing on the bill seeking to establish the Lagos State Railway Corporation (LASRAWCO) on Wednesday, is likely to remove the management of railway services from the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), which currently handles it.
The establishment of the corporation via the bill entitled: A Bill for a Law to Establish the Lagos State Railway Corporation and for Connected Matters, 2025, is possible following the amendment of the 1999 constitution, which places railway service on the Concurrent List
Speaker Mudasiru Obasa, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, said the establishment of a corporation to provide train services, which are essential in a megacity like Lagos, would enable the state to decongest traffic on the roads and reduce travel time.
“This proposed legislation represents yet another bold step and giant stride in the state government’s continued efforts to enhance the welfare and quality of life of the people of the state. Railway transportation, as we know, is a critical component of modern infrastructure and social service delivery. It forms one of the bedrocks of efficient, safe, and cost-effective movement, facilitating trade, commerce, and economic growth. Rail transport remains reliable, affordable, environmentally friendly, and highly efficient in terms of passenger capacity and sustainability,” he said.
Section 26 of the bill provides for the appointment of an Inspector of Railways, with the task to uphold safety and operational integrity, and he is expected to conduct regular inspections of coaches and tracks, offer professional recommendations, and ensure passenger’s safety.
The Chairman, House Committee on Transportation, Temitope Adedeji representing Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency 1, said the establishment of the corporation would ease the movement of people and goods, explaining that the establishment of the corporation would reduce traffic congestion, stimulate economic growth, and improve the overall quality of life of residents.
“As we are all aware, the state stands at a pivotal moment in its infrastructural and economic development, with the ever-growing population and the corresponding demand for efficient and reliable transportation.
“Therefore, there is the need to establish a comprehensive legal and institutional framework for the operation and regulation of railway services within the State has become both timely and necessary,” he said.
Speaking, the state’s Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi noted the proposed law, mandates the corporation to undertake planning for future expansions, including the Purple, Green, and Orange Lines, soon to be introduced.
Osiyemi explained that the bill was designed to position the state’s railway system in accordance with global standards.
The commissioner said the corporation would draw inspiration from countries such as the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Japan, renowned for their efficiency and innovation in rail transport.
Also speaking, the Director General (DG) of the Lagos State Safety Commission is Lanre Mojola, called for the inclusion of the commission in the composition of the governing board of the proposed corporation.
This development coincides with the plan by LAMATA to commence the Green Line Rail Project construction in the first quarter of next year, adding to the Blue and Red Lines already deployed.
The Blue Line’s initial phase connects Marina to Mile 2, with a planned extension to Okokomaiko, while the Red Line runs from Oyingbo to Agbado and ultimately reaches Marina.
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