The Lagos State Government has announced the imminent arrival of additional trains from China as part of the expansion of the Lagos Blue Line rail project. This development marks a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure and enhancing mobility for its residents.
At a press briefing held in Lagos on Thursday, the Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Frederic Oladeinde, confirmed that the trains are expected to arrive in the first quarter of 2025. They will support the extension of the Blue Line to its second phase, which connects Marina to Okokomaiko.
The Blue Line is one of the ambitious rail projects under the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) scheme, designed to reduce traffic congestion, boost economic activities, and promote environmentally friendly transport options in the densely populated city.
“The additional trains will ensure that the extended Blue Line provides faster, safer, and more reliable transportation for over 500,000 commuters daily,” Dr. Oladeinde said. “We are determined to meet our target of providing world-class public transportation to Lagosians.”
The project, overseen by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), has been a crucial part of the state’s integrated transport system. The first phase of the Blue Line, covering Marina to Mile 2, was launched in 2023 and has since significantly reduced travel times for users.
The incoming trains, manufactured to meet international safety and efficiency standards, will be integrated into the existing rail system. Officials stated that testing and commissioning would begin shortly after their arrival to ensure seamless operation.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during a recent inspection of the rail facilities, expressed confidence that the Blue Line expansion would be completed on schedule. “This is more than a transport project; it’s about improving the quality of life for every Lagosian,” the governor remarked.
Residents and stakeholders have welcomed the development, describing it as a step toward solving Lagos’s perennial traffic challenges. “This project shows that the government is prioritizing transportation, which is key to economic growth,” said transportation analyst Ayodele Akinwale.
The Blue Line Phase 2 project is part of Lagos State’s broader commitment to sustainable urban development, aiming to position the city as a model for efficient and environmentally friendly public transport in Africa.
