In a significant move to transform urban mobility, the Lagos State Government, through the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), has secured a Permanent Operating Licence and a Track Access Licence from the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC). This milestone paves the way for a major expansion of the Red Line rail services, with the state promising to increase its operations to 24 train trips per day by the end of August.
The licenses were presented today at the NRC Headquarters in Ebute-Metta by the Managing Director of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, to the Managing Director of LAMATA, Engr. (Mrs.) Abimbola Akinajo.
Expanding from 9 to 24 Daily Services
Speaking at the event, Engr. Akinajo revealed that while the state currently operates nine Red Line services on the NRC track, the acquisition of more rolling stock and the new licensing agreement will allow for a nearly threefold increase in capacity.
“We are promising Lagosians 24 services in a day from the end of August or beginning of September,” Akinajo stated. She noted that this expansion is a direct result of procurement efforts and a fruitful collaboration with the NRC to maximize the use of existing rail infrastructure.
A Win for Efficiency and the Economy
Akinajo emphasized that allowing states to utilize national rail tracks is a global best practice that ensures expensive infrastructure does not sit idle between intercity trips. While intercity trains may only run every 30 to 60 minutes, state-led services can fill those gaps, bringing “full and efficient utilization” to the system.
To date, the collaboration between LAMATA and the NRC has already seen over 4 million Lagosians moved via rail. Akinajo described the licensing as a “win for Nigeria” and a “win for Lagos,” noting that the rail industry is essential for the country’s growing young population.
Rigorous Process and Professionalism
The journey to securing these permanent licenses was described as a rigorous one, involving “tough times” and “heated meetings” to ensure all safety and operational requirements were met. Engr. Akinajo commended the NRC for its professionalism, stating that LAMATA did not want the licenses handed to them as a favor, but rather to “develop capacity”.
As part of this capacity-building effort, LAMATA has already trained over 200 personnel through the NRC.
Vision for an Integrated Lagos
The licensing is a key component of Lagos State’s vision for an integrated intermodal transport system. Akinajo reiterated that transportation is the “backbone of any country’s economic growth” and that the goal is to make mobility within the city seamless.
