Lagos Assembly Takes Steps to Launch State-Owned Railway Corporation

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Bill Details
3. Government Commitment
4. Importance of Railway Transportation
5. Inspector of Railways
6. Committee Comments

The Lagos State House of Assembly has initiated legislative efforts on a bill designed to establish a comprehensive legal framework for the creation, management, and operation of a state-owned railway corporation.

The proposed legislation, titled “A Bill for a Law to Establish the Lagos State Railway Corporation and for Connected Matters, 2025,” aims to lay a structured foundation for an efficient rail transport system within the state.

During a one-day public hearing on the bill held on Wednesday in Lagos, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, emphasized that this initiative reflects the government’s dedication to modernizing transportation infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Obasa, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mojisola Meranda, stated that the establishment of the corporation would improve mobility, alleviate road congestion, and reduce travel time across the state.

“This proposed legislation marks yet another bold and visionary step in the Lagos State Government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the welfare and quality of life for its citizens,” he remarked.

“Railway transportation is a crucial element of modern infrastructure. It provides safe, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly movement of people and goods, while also stimulating trade, commerce, and economic growth,” he added.

The Speaker further explained that Section 26 of the bill outlines the appointment of an Inspector of Railways, whose duties would involve conducting regular inspections of trains and tracks, offering professional guidance, and ensuring the safety and operational integrity of rail services.

In his comments, the Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation, Hon. Temitope Adedeji, highlighted that the proposed corporation would be instrumental in facilitating the movement of people and goods within the state.

Adedeji, who represents Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency 1, described the bill as timely and essential, considering Lagos’s rapidly growing population and the increasing demand for a modern, reliable transport system.

“With the state at a crucial juncture in its infrastructural and economic development, there is an urgent need to establish a robust legal and institutional framework to regulate and operate railway services effectively,” he stated.