In a significant development for the city’s transportation landscape, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has officially announced the commencement of operations for the long-awaited Lagos State Blue Line Rail, with services scheduled to begin on September 4th, 2023.
The Blue Line Rail, stretching from Marina to Mile 2, is set to transform commuting across the city according to Governor Sanwo-Olu who himself will take the inaugural ride at 9 a.m. on Monday, September 4th, before the public gains access.
Governor Sanwo-Olu shared his excitement on his X (formerly Twitter) account, stating, “I am delighted to announce that the long-awaited Blue Line Rail will begin commercial operations on Monday, September 4, 2023, from Marina to Mile 2 as we put #LagosOnTrack.
I am delighted to announce that the long-awaited Blue Line Rail will begin commercial operations on Monday September 4, 2023 from Marina to Mile 2 as we put #LagosOnTrack.
Join me at 9am at Marina Station as we become the first passengers of this important project that will… pic.twitter.com/fGtpqZnGSV
— Babajide Sanwo-Olu (@jidesanwoolu) August 30, 2023
“Join me at 9 am at Marina Station as we become the first passengers of this important project that will make daily commute easier for a lot of our residents.
“From Tuesday, partial passenger operations will begin from 6:30-10 am and afternoon peak from 4-9:30 pm.
“We’re starting with 12 trips for 2 weeks, ramping up to 76 trips/day and you would be able to board the train using your Lagos Cowry Card,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu referred to the rail line as a “people’s project,” emphasizing that its world-class services are meant for everyone’s enjoyment.
Describing the Blue Line Rail as a key component of their mission to create a fully interconnected city, the Governor highlighted its potential to revolutionize the city’s transportation system.
He pointed out that the rail line boasts an extensive network of security features, including more than 300 CCTV cameras spread throughout and over 30 cameras dedicated solely to monitoring the tracks. Command and control centers are stationed at all trackside stations.
“Lagos, this belongs to you,” Governor Sanwo-Olu asserted, urging the public to take ownership and handle the rail line responsibly, just as they would their personal belongings. He made it clear that any disruption or altercation aboard the train would not be tolerated, and he emphasized a strict stance against vandalism.
The governor reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to transforming every facet of the state.
Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), also spoke during a press conference held at the Marina Station of the Blue Line Rail. She advised passengers against consuming food and drinks on the train while assuring that robust security measures had been established to safeguard lives and property.
Furthermore, Akinajo assured that the Governor’s plan to offer subsidized public transportation rates at a 50% discount within the state would also extend to the train service, making it more affordable for commuters.
Notably, the first phase of the Blue Line Rail project was inaugurated by former President Muhammadu Buhari in January. Ahead of its official launch, Sanwo-Olu personally conducted a test run of the rail line, which is designed to connect Mile 2 on the mainland to Marina on the island.
