The Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Transportation on Wednesday held a one-day public hearing on the Lagos State Railway Corporation Bill, 2025, at the Lateef Jakande Auditorium, Assembly Complex, Alausa, Ikeja.
The Bill, titled “A Law to Establish the Lagos State Railway Corporation to Improve the Rail Transportation System in Lagos State and for Connected Purposes,” seeks to provide a robust legal framework for the development, management, and operation of the state’s rail transport system.
The event had in attendance key lawmakers, including Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda (Apapa I), Hon. Osafile Foluke (Amuwo Odofin I), and Hon. Bonu Solomon Saanu (Badagry I), among several others. Also present were representatives of LAMATA, members of the Safety Corps, the Commissioner for Transportation, and other key stakeholders in the transport sector.
Representing the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Dr. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, in her welcome address, expressed delight at the large turnout and underscored the Assembly’s commitment to participatory governance.
“Today’s gathering underscores our legislative commitment to inclusive governance through stakeholder engagement and public scrutiny. At this stage of the legislative process, we open the Bill to expert evaluation and citizens’ contributions to ensure transparency and inclusiveness in our lawmaking,” she said.
Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation, Hon. Temitope Adewale, explained that the public hearing followed the Bill’s second reading, sponsored by the Majority Leader, Hon. Noheem Adams (Eti-Osa I). He stated that 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 that all transport systems are properly connected,” Adewale noted.
He further clarified that LAMATA would continue to serve as the regulatory authority overseeing the state’s transport sector.
The Bill defines “charges other than rates and fares” as demurrage, dues, fees, storage, terminal, and tolls, and any other charges not being rates or fares for services performed, facilities provided, penalties imposed, or licenses granted.
It further provides for the establishment of a corporate body to be known as the Lagos State Railway Corporation (LASRAWCO), responsible for the operation, management, and development of the state’s railway system.
The objectives of the proposed Corporation include providing efficient and reliable rail transportation services, implementing sustainable and environmentally friendly railway projects, and promoting economic growth through enhanced connectivity across Lagos State.
With this Bill, the Lagos State Government aims to make transportation across the state more efficient, integrated, and stress-free for all residents.
