Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, revealed that President Bola Tinubu will officially inaugurate the Red Line of the Lagos Light Rail project before the close of 2023. Sanwo-Olu disclosed this significant development while becoming the project’s inaugural passenger on the Blue Line of the Light Rail, which traverses Marina, on Monday.
“The Red Line is currently at approximately 95-96% completion, and we are resolute that it must reach 100% before we commission it. We are confident that the Red Line will be commissioned by the end of the year,” the governor asserted.
Sanwo-Olu also outlined a forthcoming schedule of commissioning activities, stating, “In the first week of October, we will commence the inauguration of the bridges along the Red Line’s corridors. These bridges, strategically constructed, are designed to facilitate vehicular movement without impeding the rail’s operation. The locations include Ikeja, Yaba, Ebute-Metta, Muhin, Ayoola Coker, and others.”
The governor further elaborated on the commissioning plan, revealing that it would encompass stations along the Red Line corridors, encompassing Oyingbo, Yaba, Mushin, Ikeja, Agege, Iju, and more. This meticulous approach will ensure that the Red Line begins full operation following its official commissioning by the president before the conclusion of 2023.
The Red Line rail project, as detailed by the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, comprises a 37-kilometre North-South rail route. The proposed route spans from Agbado to Marina and features 13 stations at Agbado, Iju, Agege, Ikeja, MMIA International, MMIA Domestic, Oshodi, Mushin, Yaba, Ebute Meta, Iddo, Ebute Ero, and Marina.
Upon its successful completion, the Red Line project will significantly contribute to alleviating traffic congestion, aligning with the Traffic and Transportation pillar of the T.H.E.M.E.S agenda. Moreover, it will offer a reliable alternative to road and water transportation within the Lagos metropolis, addressing the city’s transportation challenges.
