Today marks the first anniversary of the commercial passenger operation of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Red Line, another project that signals our commitment to actualizing the Lagos Strategic Transport Master Plan (LSTMP).

In its first year, the Red Line has successfully transitioned from a conceptual project to a working mass transit solution, sharing tracks with the Nigerian Railway Corporation. We began conservatively with a schedule of six daily trips (two morning, four evening) and, through efficient operations management, successfully scaled that service to nine trips a day starting in February 2025.

This incremental increase has been vital in building operational stability and trust in the system.

We acknowledge the public response to the affordability measures championed by His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The decision to reduce the single-trip fare from ₦1,500 to ₦1,000 from end to end, coupled with the introduction of zonal fares, has dramatically increased the accessibility and popularity of the service.

The resulting surge in ridership validates the essential role the Red Line plays in providing sustainable, cost-effective mobility for Lagosians.

As we reflect on the success of the first year, our focus immediately shifts to expansion. We are delighted to confirm that the Red Line is entering a new phase of massive capacity increase. We are set to receive three additional train sets, each consisting of eight carriages. This confirmed fleet expansion will translate directly into a major improvement in frequency and passenger comfort, significantly easing the capacity crunch experienced during peak hours.

Crucially, the vision of an interconnected Lagos is closer than ever. Plans are currently being finalized to connect the Red Line with the Blue Line at the National Theatre interchange. This strategic link will soon allow commuters to seamlessly transfer between Lagos’s two major rail corridors, unlocking the full, transformative benefits of our integrated transport strategy.

LAMATA remains dedicated to delivering world-class, reliable, connected and affordable public transportation. We thank Mr. Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his vision for public transportation, the people of Lagos for their patronage and look forward to defining the next year through definitive capacity expansion and network integration.