Lagos Blue Line light rail transports over 1 million passengers in 219 days with 9,322 train trips

Phase 1 of the Lagos Blue Line light rail, which commenced commercial operations on September 4, 2023, has successfully transported over one million passengers in just 219 days of operation. This is according to an official announcement by John Zhao, a representative of the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). The CCECC constructed the first phase of the rail and currently manages its operations.

In a post on his official social media account, John Zhao highlighted the significant milestone achieved by the Blue Line, stating that over one million passengers had been ferried across 9,322 train rides during this period. The post also emphasized the rail’s impeccable safety record and punctuality, providing much-needed relief to the transportation challenges faced by residents of Lagos while offering a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

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Phase I of Lagos Light Rail Blue Line, operated by #CCECC, has run safely for 219 days, transporting 1 million+ passengers on 9,322 trains. With 100% on-time performance, it eases transportation pressure and offers a greener, safer option for Lagos residents. @Mr_JAGs pic.twitter.com/jhL9vrKEHX

— John Zhao (CCECC) (@JohnCCECC) April 16, 2024

This milestone marks a substantial increase in ridership compared to earlier figures. The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) reported that between September 4, 2023, and January 4, 2024, the Blue Line Metro Rail had transported 583,000 passengers, indicating a notable surge in usage over the months.

About the Lagos Blue Line

The Lagos Blue Line is a pivotal component of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) system, spanning a length of 27 kilometres. Phase 1 of the Blue Line, stretching 13 kilometres from Lagos Marina to Mile 2, was completed in 2023 and officially launched for commercial operations in September of the same year. The rail system was constructed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which also oversees its current operations.

The ongoing construction of Phase 2 of the Blue Line, extending from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko, is part of the strategic expansion plans for the rail network, aimed at enhancing connectivity and easing commuting within Lagos and its environs.

Inter-state extension plans

In a bid to improve its multi-modal transport infrastructure, the Ogun State Government announced its plans to extend the Lagos Blue Line Metro Rail into Agbara, as well as extend the Lagos Red Line Metro Rail Project into the Ijoko and Ifo/Kajola areas of the state. These extensions, part of the Lagos-Ogun Joint Development initiative, are key components of the 2024 budget for Ogun State, totalling N415.6 billion and themed “Budget of Sustained Growth and Development.”