The Lagos State House of Assembly on Tuesday held a public hearing on a bill seeking to establish the Lagos State Railway Corporation, aimed at strengthening the state’s transport infrastructure and improving the efficiency of rail services.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mojisola Meranda (Apapa I), said the event underscored the Assembly’s commitment to participatory governance and transparency through stakeholder engagement.

She explained that the proposed legislation represents a major stride toward improving the welfare and quality of life of Lagos residents by enhancing the mass transit system.

“Railway transportation is a critical component of modern infrastructure and social service delivery. It supports trade, commerce, and economic growth by providing safe, efficient, and affordable mobility,” Meranda said.

According to her, the bill will empower the proposed corporation to collaborate with public and private partners on railway projects, conduct research for system expansion including the forthcoming Purple, Green, and Orange Lines and uphold global standards in rail operations.

The bill also provides for the establishment of a governing board comprising transportation experts and a Managing Director to oversee day-to-day operations. Significantly, Section 26 introduces the office of an Inspector of Railways, tasked with ensuring safety, operational integrity, and regular inspection of trains and tracks.

Chairman, House Committee on Transportation, Hon. Temitope Adewale, explained that the hearing followed the bill’s second reading, sponsored by the Majority Leader, Hon. Noheem Adams (Eti-Osa I). He said the initiative would strengthen Lagos’ intermodal transport system and help decongest the state’s roads.

“The goal is to make mass transit more efficient and accessible to all Lagosians, ensuring all transport systems are properly connected,” Adewale noted.

He further clarified that the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) would retain its role as the regulatory body overseeing the state’s transport sector.

The private member bill, containing 28 clauses, seeks to regulate rail transport operations and ensure safety, sustainability, and efficiency in the sector.

During the stakeholders’ session, Engr. Festus Todowede, representing the Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, stressed the need to prioritize passenger safety in railway operations.

However, Mr. Ajani Oluwakayode, CEO of Global Key Logistics, raised concerns about potential overlaps between the proposed corporation and LAMATA, urging the Assembly to clearly define their respective roles.

The public hearing marked another milestone in Lagos’ ongoing efforts to modernize its transport network and align its railway system with global best practices.