The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has disclosed plans aimed at strengthening safety and improving transport architecture to give commuters a new travel experience in the state.
Sanwo-Olu revealed this on Friday during a courtesy visit by the Ambassador of Sweden to Nigeria, Annika Hahn-Englund, in the State House, Marina.
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Sanwo-Olu noted that the state government is committed to existing bilateral partnerships with the Swedish government.
He added that the ongoing feasibility study of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority’s operational capacity by a Swedish company would bring about expansion.
The governor said, “Sustainability of our investment in transportation infrastructure and services is critical to driving more innovation into the sector. This will also translate to how seamlessly we diversify from our use of fossil fuels to clean energy that will reduce emissions as well as improve the quality of the environment. We are currently engaged in providing modern infrastructure around three transportation models, which are waterways, roads, and rail.
“We are not unaware of the effects these means of public mobility have on the environment. Efforts are already in place to ensure sustainable development and create an eco-friendly environment. That is why the state government signed an MoU with Oando Energy firm to test electric vehicles for public transportation.
“The proof of concept is underway and it will give us clear direction on what is required both on the infrastructure end and the mobility side of it.
“As a government, we are working on all of the options. We also have a relationship with Scania AB and TML on data gathering towards ensuring the safety of the passengers using our services. We need more symbiotic partnerships in this sector, not a handout. This is a conversation in which we both can identify what the needs should be. With the partnership, we can develop a win-win relationship,” he stated.
On her part, Hahn-Englund appreciated the governor for prioritizing economic cooperation with her country.
She disclosed that the SWED Fund for LAMATA would allow Lagos to create a more sustainable transportation infrastructure network, adding that the Swedish company would be developing a project with the Lagos Government where the State would develop a system that would register and send out violations, and monitor fine payment.
Also, Japanese envoy, Matsunaga Kazuyoshi added that the visit was to expand Lagos-Japan cooperation.
He said, “Lagos is the entry point for the trade inflow into Nigeria and Japan fully understands the potential of the Nigerian market; we are confident to raise the market volume for both countries.”
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
