Sanwo-Olu rides as Lagos Blue Line Rail begins operations

The Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line System has officially commenced its commercial operations, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu taking the inaugural ride along with other government officials. This long-anticipated development marks a significant milestone in Lagos' transportation infrastructure.

The train journey began at the Marina terminal at 9 a.m. and proceeded through Marina to Iganmu, Alaba, and finally reached Mile 2, carrying excited passengers, including journalists.

The Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, had previously announced that commercial operations for the Lagos Blue Line Rail would start on September 4. Initially, the train will run 12 trips using the locomotive system for the first month due to some finishing touches that need completion before transitioning to electric power.

LAMATA plans to gradually increase the number of trips to 76 in the electric-powered train operation phase. The train service is expected to accommodate an estimated 150,000 to 175,000 passengers daily, operating from 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. The schedule will include morning and evening phases, with ongoing tests throughout the day to ensure operational efficiency.

The Blue Line project encompasses a 27-kilometer rail route designed to run from Okokomaiko to Mile 2, with an extension to Marina via Ijora. The first phase, spanning 13 kilometers with five stations (Marina, National Theatre, Orile, Suru, Alaba, and Mile 2), has been completed, with 13 kilometers of rail tracks laid. Phase 2 will extend the line to its full 27 kilometers.