Lagos to Ban Danfo, Korope Buses on Lekki-Epe Corridor from October 1

The Lagos State Government has announced plans to ban Danfo and Korope buses along the Lekki-Epe corridor starting from October 1, 2024.

This move is part of the state's Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) aimed at improving public transportation and better serving the residents of Lagos.

In a statement on Sunday, the Special Adviser on Transportation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Sola Giwa, clarified the government's position in response to media reports suggesting a blanket ban on Danfos in Lagos.

He emphasized that the initiative will introduce mass transit buses for the Lekki-Epe corridor to streamline and enhance public commuting.

Giwa stated that Danfo buses that meet the standards set by the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) will continue to operate as mid-capacity buses.

Similarly, Korope buses that comply with these standards will be integrated into the First Mile Last Mile (FMLM) services to serve interior roads from Obalende/CMS to Ajah.

"The current state of bus operations on the corridor is chaotic," Giwa noted, stressing the need to regulate and integrate the informal transport sector into the state’s comprehensive Bus Reform Initiative.

The statement outlined several key points of the initiative:

• Introduction of Mass Transit Buses: As a pilot project, the BRI will introduce mass transit buses specifically for the Lekki-Epe corridor.
• Danfo and Korope Integration: Danfo buses that conform to VIS standards will operate as mid-capacity buses, while Korope buses will be integrated into FMLM services.
• Roadworthiness and Professional Training: Both types of buses will undergo roadworthiness checks, and drivers will receive professional training at the state’s driving institute.
• Designated Routes and Compliance: Designated routes will be assigned, and compliance will be strictly monitored to ensure smooth operations.
• Passenger Comfort: An e-ticketing system will be introduced to enhance passenger comfort and convenience.
• Addressing Illegal Pickups: The initiative will tackle issues of illegal passenger pickups and unauthorized bus stops effectively.

Giwa highlighted that a stakeholders’ meeting was held on June 27th, involving heads of transport unions, key transport operators, officials from the State’s Ministry of Transportation, and the Special Adviser and Permanent Secretary of Transportation.

During this meeting, all doubts and concerns were addressed, and a communique was signed to solidify the agreement.

“There is no cause for alarm,” Giwa assured. "The initiative has prompted transport operators to register for new franchises with the Ministry of Transportation."