Lagos Assembly moves to establish state-owned railway corporation

Lagos State House of Assembly has commenced legislative work on a bill aimed at establishing a comprehensive legal framework for the creation, management, and operation of a state-owned railway corporation.

The proposed law, titled “A Bill for a Law to Establish the Lagos State Railway Corporation and for Connected Matters, 2025,” seeks to provide a structured foundation for an efficient rail transport system in the state.

Speaking during a one-day public hearing on the bill held on Wednesday in Lagos, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, said the initiative showcases the government’s commitment to modernizing transportation infrastructure and improving residents’ quality of life.

Obasa, who was represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mojisola Meranda, said the establishment of the corporation would enhance mobility, reduce road congestion, and shorten travel time across the state.

“This proposed legislation represents yet another bold and visionary step in the Lagos State Government’s continued efforts to improve the welfare and quality of life of its people,” he stated.

“Railway transportation remains a critical component of modern infrastructure. It ensures safe, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly movement of people and goods while driving trade, commerce, and economic growth,” he added.

The Speaker also explained that Section 26 of the bill provides for the appointment of an Inspector of Railways, whose responsibilities would include conducting regular inspections of trains and tracks, offering professional guidance, and ensuring the safety and operational integrity of rail services.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation, Hon. Temitope Adedeji, noted that the proposed corporation would play a vital role in easing the movement of people and goods within the state.

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

“With the state standing at a pivotal point 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 efficiently,” he said.