The Lagos State Government has assured the public that its much-anticipated second rail project, the Red Line, will commence commercial operations on October 15, 2024. This development was confirmed in a statement signed by Kolawole Ojelabi, Head of Corporate Communication at the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), and shared on the agency’s X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday.
Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, Managing Director of LAMATA, also confirmed the news, stating that the Red Line operations will play a crucial role in easing traffic congestion in Lagos, one of Africa’s most densely populated cities. According to Mrs. Akinajo, the Red Line will complement the existing Blue Line, reducing the number of people caught in Lagos’ notorious gridlock by an estimated 100,000 to 150,000 daily, as hinted by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Olawale Musa, in a conversation with 9am News.
The Red Line project is a major milestone for Lagos State’s urban transport infrastructure, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is set to lead the executive council members and other dignitaries in inaugurating the first fee-paying passenger trip. The governor will ride along with commuters as part of the passenger operations’ launch.
Red Line Operations
LAMATA has also announced adjustments to the train schedule ahead of the Red Line’s official launch. Passenger movement will now begin daily from Agbado at 6:00 a.m., offering more convenient early-morning travel options for commuters. Previously, trips commenced from Oyingbo at 9:00 a.m., with the first train reaching Agbado by 10:07 a.m.
The adjusted timetable is the result of data gathered from non-fee-paying passenger test rides conducted in recent months. According to LAMATA, priority will be given to origin trips from Agbado, a key hub where many Lagos residents live and commute to work at major city centers such as Ikeja, Oshodi, and Lagos Island.
For passengers whose journeys end on Lagos Island, bus services will be available at the Oyingbo bus terminal to help them complete their trips, ensuring a smooth and integrated transport experience.
The Red Line’s commencement marks a significant step forward in Lagos State’s efforts to develop a modern, efficient public transport system. With Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration pushing forward its ambitious transport agenda, the new rail line is expected to significantly reduce travel time and enhance the quality of life for Lagos residents.
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