The Ogun State government has unveiled an ambitious and comprehensive transportation system aimed at addressing the challenges of rural-urban migration and enhancing overall transport infrastructure within the state. Speaking during a press briefing on the newly introduced Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus scheme, the State Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Gbenga Dairo, highlighted the collaboration with the United Kingdom Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (UKFCDO) and experts from the Olabisi Onabanjo University in developing the transformative transportation blueprint.
Dairo emphasized that the strategic plan is geared towards providing affordable, safe, and sustainable transportation across rural and urban communities within Ogun State. The implementation of the plan is already underway, with a phased approach to ensure its effective integration into the existing transportation framework. The initial phase involved the launch of the Pilot CNG fueled bus scheme along the Adatan – Ita Osin route, with subsequent expansion to the Mowe-Ibafo-Berger route, addressing the escalating transportation costs faced by commuters.
Moreover, the Commissioner stressed that the pilot scheme serves as a platform to evaluate the harmonization of formal and informal transportation systems, with Abeokuta serving as a pivotal case study. The broader objective is to extend similar bus services to other parts of the state in the ensuing months, underpinned by meticulous planning and the requisite infrastructure development.
Dairo acknowledged the distinctive nature of Ogun State’s transportation landscape, underscoring its predominantly rural character compared to its more urbanized neighbor, Lagos State. He underscored the significance of factoring in the diverse small towns, villages, and corridor locations such as Mowe, Ibafo, Ota, Ojodu-Abiodun, Ogijo, and other boundary areas with Lagos in formulating a robust transport strategy.
The State’s partnership with UKFCDO-funded consultants to establish a transport authority underscores its commitment to instituting a sustainable and efficient transport governance framework. Dairo also emphasized the economic potential of investments in the transport sector, citing the expectation of a 70% return on investment over time. Furthermore, plans to establish a dedicated Transport Fund will facilitate the realization of the state’s transportation aspirations.
In addition to the CNG bus scheme, the Commissioner highlighted the government’s focus on rail transport development, signaling a renewed partnership with Lagos State to facilitate the extension of the red line railway into strategic hubs within Ogun State. The Governor’s keen interest in this initiative underscores the dedication to advancing multi-modal transportation infrastructure, with prospects of linking the Agro Cargo Airport to Lagos State via rail also under active consideration.
The statement concluded with insights into the ongoing discussions surrounding high-capacity buses, alternative fuels, and inter-city transportation schemes tailored to the diverse needs of Ogun State’s communities. The holistic approach to transportation planning, encompassing both urban and rural dynamics, epitomizes Ogun State’s resolute commitment to redefining its transport landscape to meet the evolving demands of its populace.
