The Lagos State Government plans to introduce 2,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses by the year's end, according to Commissioner for Transport Seun Osiyemi. Speaking at the annual Ministerial Press Briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, Osiyemi revealed that the initiative, a Private Public Partnership (PPP), will see the buses rolled out in two phases of 1,000 each. Additionally, a private transport operator will introduce 231 electric vehicles in June.
These efforts aim to alleviate transportation challenges for residents and reduce carbon emissions, promoting healthier living. Osiyemi urged residents to report any officials from the 57 local governments and council development areas who are unlawfully arresting motorists for traffic violations.
He emphasized that only officers of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have the authority to impound vehicles and arrest violators. "Lagosians should not allow themselves to be extorted by fake people parading themselves as officials of the Ministry of Transportation," Osiyemi stated, adding that local governments lack traffic officers and cannot arrest motorists for traffic offenses. He urged residents to report any local government official violating this law.
The commissioner outlined LASTMA's forthcoming initiatives, including the launch of a Complaint Call Centre (Digital and Physical) for easier access, the re-launch of a specialized traffic mayor and induction of executive members, continuous road traffic safety audits, and ongoing advocacy for adherence and compliance with traffic laws and regulations as per the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.
