Urban mobility critical to Lagos future – Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State is transitioning to greener and efficient systems that align urban transport development with climate resilience.

The state Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu said this at the maiden edition of Lagos Metropolitan Transport Authority (LAMATA) National Conference on Sustainable Urban Mobility (SUM Conference24).

The event held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Tuesday.

The conference had the theme: “Implementing Safe, Inclusive and Climate Resilient Urban Transport in a Digital Age For Sustainable Development.

The governor was represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

He said that the state government was pioneering a sustainable transport system, recognising its critical role in driving economic growth and enhancing quality of life.

Sanwo-Olu said that urban mobility was critical to Lagos Future.

He added that transport was central to sustainable development, connecting people to jobs, education and essential services.

“Lagos State Government through LAMATA and the Lagos State Waterways Authority is implementing a sustainable multimodal public transport system that integrates cleaner-energy intra-city buses, bus rapid transit, light rail transit, inland waterways transit, and non-motorized transport options.

“Also, Lagos is actively implementing programmes and policies aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels and combating harmful effects of greenhouse gas emissions.

“We are exploring clean urban transport solutions that will incorporate the use of hydroelectricity, CNG, biomass, geothermal energy and even renewable energy sources such as wind power and solar energy into our public transport system,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu said that poorly-managed transport systems increased global challenges such as air pollution and social exclusion.

“The state is implementing a multimodal public transport system, incorporating cleaner energy buses, light rail transit, and non-motorized options.

“By prioritising sustainability and accessibility, Lagos aims to reduce emissions, enhance air quality and create a healthier environment for all,” he said.

The governor said that private sector partnership was key to achieving sustainable urban mobility.

He emphasised that government alone could not transform transport systems.

Sanwo-Olu encouraged stakeholders in transport to collaborate, share ideas and provide innovative solutions at the conference.