The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) points to the deficient public transportation service in Lagos; the most populated city in Nigeria, by stating that the city requires another 15,000 buses to accommodate its expanding population.
The lack of adequate public transport systems throughout the city causes extensive traffic congestion and frequent delays and adds major mobility obstacles for all commuters.
The 20 million people living in Lagos experience transportation problems because not enough buses exist which drives citizens to choose costly travel methods or spend excessive amounts of time waiting.
The latest survey from LAMATA demonstrates that the city requires an increased bus fleet to supply sufficient transportation services throughout the day.
LAMATA under the Nigerian government is planning to solve the funding problem through public-private partnerships to manage the additional buses. The government will supervise these partnerships which enable private investors to allocate their financial resources into projects.
The initiative supports the Lagos State Development Plan 2012-2025 because it focuses on developing transportation infrastructure. The plan stimulates private companies to participate in developing the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system that currently serves to reduce traffic congestion on important routes.
LAMATA continues to work on complete public transportation reforms focused on modernizing the Lagos public transit system. The development plan consists of enhancing road facilities and bus station quality while integrating modern ticketing systems and timetable technology.
The proposed updates will improve operational efficiency and service quality for the numerous people who commute daily.
The present state of Nigeria’s economic hub requires immediate transport system improvements because deteriorating traffic conditions damage both business efficiency and residents’ living standards.
The expansion of bus services along with these measures will help Lagos evolve its transport system into a better accessible and reliable commuter-friendly transport network.