Lagos Set to Transform Lekki–Epe Commuting With New Regulated Bus Operations

The Lagos State Government is set to begin regulated bus operations along the Lekki–Epe corridor on December 8, marking the first phase of the Lekki–Epe Bus Reform Scheme designed to improve mobility and safety in the fast-growing corridor.

LAMATA said the rollout will start with 229 high- and medium-capacity buses operating on predictable routes, fixed fares, and modern payment systems. The buses will also run under a strictly regulated framework aimed at improving travel experience.

The government noted that the Lekki–Epe axis has faced heavy congestion due to rapid development and limited formal transport options, forcing residents to depend on private cars and informal buses such as danfo and korope.

Under the new scheme, buses will operate on major routes including Ajah–CMS/Marina, Ajah–Obalende, Ajah–Oshodi, Ajah–Berger, and Ajah–Iyana Ipaja, all equipped with QR verification tags and TAP stickers for cashless transactions.

Officials warned that both transport workers and commuters who engage in cash payments will face sanctions as the state moves to eliminate fare manipulation and enforce digital payments.

“This reform is a deliberate step towards creating a safer, more predictable, and fully regulated transport service on the Lekki–Epe corridor, which has long operated outside the formal framework,” the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, said.

“We are working closely with operators and unions to ensure a smooth transition as we phase out unregulated minibuses and introduce a modern fleet capable of reducing travel time, easing congestion, and improving commuter experience,” he added.

The Lekki–Epe scheme builds on previous reforms such as the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and regulated routes from TBS to Ikorodu, Ikeja, Egbeda, and Marina. The state government says the long-term benefits of the new initiative include reduced traffic congestion, higher passenger capacity per trip, improved safety standards, and a more efficient transport network across Lagos.