Amid confusion, the Lagos State Government has clarified the planned ban on Danfo and Korope buses along the Lekki-Epe corridor starting from October 1, 2024.
A statement by the Special Adviser on Transportation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Mr. Sola Giwa, on Sunday, said the ban is part of the State’s bus reform initiative aimed at enhancing public commuting and better service to residents of Lagos.
He explained that the initiative will introduce mass transit buses for the Lekki-Epe corridor and that Danfo buses that meet the standards of the vehicle inspection service will operate as mid-capacity buses.
He pointed out that Korope buses that meet the standards will be integrated into the First Mile Last Mile services to serve the interior roads along the stretch from Obalende/CMS to Ajah.
The Special Adviser emphasised that the current state of bus operations on the corridor is chaotic, adding that there is the need to regulate and integrate the informal transport sector into the State’s bus reform initiative.
The statement reads, “I have received numerous calls and messages following the publication on various blogs and online news platforms regarding a ban on Danfos by Lagos State.
“To clarify and prevent any misunderstandings, it is essential to highlight that the forthcoming initiative is designed to enhance public commuting and better serve the residents of Lagos.
“Key facts about the Bus Reform Initiative include the primary goal of the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) is to restructure commercial bus operations.
“As a pilot project, the BRI will introduce mass transit buses for the Lekki-Epe corridor.
“Danfo buses that conform to the standards of the VIS will operate as Mid-capacity buses while Korope buses that also meets the standards will be integrated into the First Mile Last Mile services to serve the interior roads along the stretch from Obalende/CMS to Ajah (specifically Eleko).
“Danfo and Korope buses will undergo roadworthiness checks, and drivers will receive professional training at our driving institute.
“Designated routes will be assigned, and compliance will be strictly monitored.
“Passenger comfort is a top priority; therefore, an e-ticketing system will be introduced.
“The issue of illegal passenger pickups and unauthorized bus stops will be effectively addressed.”
Giwa also disclosed that a stakeholders’ meeting held on June 27th, which included heads of transport unions, key transport operators, officials from the State’s Ministry of Transportation, and the Special Adviser and Permanent Secretary of Transportation, addressed all doubts and concerns, and a communique was signed.
“A stakeholders’ meeting was held on June 27th, including heads of transport unions, key transport operators, officials from the State’s Ministry of Transportation, and the Special Adviser and Permanent Secretary of Transportation.
“A communique was signed at the stakeholders’ meeting, addressing all doubts and concerns. There is no cause for alarm.
“The initiative has prompted transport operators to register for new franchises with the Ministry of Transportation.”
