The MegaCity struggles with transportation

Over the years, transportation has always been an eyesore in most parts of Lagos Nigeria, based on the condition of the road and high traffic. Can you imagine waking up at 3am for you to meet up at work every day? How about coming back from work? No one can predict the traffic you gonna see or meet on your way and that has become the normal routine for Lagosians. Hmm! Lagos headache 🤔

Lagos State, Nigeria, has long struggled with transportation challenges, primarily due to the deplorable condition of roads and persistent traffic congestion. However, the Lagos State Government has been working to address these issues, implementing measures to alleviate the difficulties faced by commuters. However, the work done is sometimes not visible because many people are ready to live in Lagos. Lagos, the home of wisdom✌️

People are waiting for buses to their various destinations.

Traveling from central Lagos to the outskirts, such as Badagry or Epe, can be a daunting experience. The journey is often marred by extreme road conditions, characterized by numerous potholes, and heavy traffic, which significantly increases travel time. A trip that should take approximately 40 minutes can take up to 2-3 hours due to these challenges.

I recall a personal experience where a 140km journey from Epe to Badagry, which should have taken 3 hours and 40 minutes, took an arduous 7 hours due to heavy traffic caused by poor road conditions. Fortunately, the government has begun to focus on repairing and reconstructing major roads, making them more motorable. Although there are still challenges, the improvement is noticeable and appreciated.

What we face daily

Despite these efforts, the current economic policies, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, have led to a significant increase in the cost of petrol and diesel in Nigeria. This, in turn, has resulted in extremely high transportation costs. Commercial motorists have taken advantage of this situation, inflating transportation prices and making it inconvenient for passengers.

Personally, I have been forced to prioritize my travel, only undertaking essential journeys due to the high cost of transportation. To improve transportation in Lagos State. I don't travel like before because the prices are just too high. Imagine going to a place within the same vicinity and spending more than before 🤔 Is it their fault? The tax on each vehicle from different people is ridiculous. Ticket payment from one point to the other, in the end, they earn more than the drivers. It is hectic!

Mad traffic every day

What do we expect from the government?

1. The government should continue to prioritize road repairs and reconstruction, ensuring that all major roads are in good condition.
2. They should implement more lane diversions in some areas where necessary.
3. Introduces measures to reduce or regulate fuel prices, mitigating the impact of high transportation costs.
4. Establishes regulations to control the prices charged by commercial motorists, protecting passengers from exploitation.
5. The government should stop exploiting the drivers on ticket issuance; with this in check, transportation costs can be reduced.

By addressing these issues, transportation in Lagos State can become more convenient, reliable, and affordable. The government's efforts to improve road infrastructure are a step in the right direction, and with continued attention to these challenges, commuters can expect a significant improvement in their travel experiences.

The government should consider implementing sustainable transportation solutions, such as public transportation systems, to reduce reliance on private vehicles and commercial motorists. This can help alleviate traffic congestion, reduce fuel consumption, and decrease transportation costs.

While progress has been made in addressing transportation challenges in Lagos State, there is still much work to be done. By prioritizing road repairs, regulating fuel prices, and controlling transportation costs, the government can create a more efficient and affordable transportation system, improving the lives of commuters and contributing to the overall development of the state.

Even though the past governors have tried to bring cheap BRT(Bus rapid transit) to Lagosians, it is still not adequate. But thank God work is in progress, and the government is now paying attention to these major roads and fixing them, which is making the roads more motorable. Though there are still lots of hassles on the roads, it's a lot better than what it used to be.

All images are mine.

My response to the #hivelearners writing contest on the topic; Public Transportation

Thank you for reading