Former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, has called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to take decisive action to reclaim the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system from the dominance of tricycles and minibuses, and to expand the state’s waterway transport network.
Fashola made this statement during the 2024 Lagos Physical Planning Summit, stressing the need for government intervention to prioritize the BRT system for achieving a well-regulated, intermodal transport network and addressing climate change concerns.
“We must reclaim the BRT from the tyranny of tricycles and minibuses,” Fashola said. “The proliferation of these vehicles contradicts our climate commitments due to their high greenhouse gas emissions. Our global partners must be watching us with concern.”
He underscored the significance of the BRT system, which was the first of its kind in Africa, inspired by models from South America.
In response, Governor Sanwo-Olu reassured attendees that Lagos’ integrated public transport system is on course, with plans to introduce 2,000 CNG buses in 2025 to revitalize the BRT network.
The summit was attended by stakeholders from government, traditional rulers, and the built environment sector.
