The Lagos State Government has announced an ambitious plan to achieve carbon neutrality across its transportation system by 2035.
This announcement was made during the celebrations marking the fifth anniversary of Lagos Bus Services Ltd. (LBSL), which also saw the commissioning of a new staff sick bay at the LBSL premises in Oshodi.
Honourable Temitope Adewale, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Transportation, revealed the state’s comprehensive strategy to transition to cleaner technologies such as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric buses.
He emphasized that this initiative would involve advanced route optimization and efforts to reduce unnecessary emissions from dead mileage and idling, creating a smart, efficient, and resilient transportation network.
Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, highlighted the importance of meticulous planning, phased execution, and continuous review to ensure the policy’s success. He noted that the government would allocate at least 5% of revenue to business continuity and sustainable plans, demonstrating a strong financial commitment to the initiative. Osiyemi underscored that the Sustainability Policy marks a significant milestone towards a greener and more sustainable future, integrating environmental, social, and governance principles into all aspects of operation.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, praised the state’s multimodal transportation system, which includes road, water, and rail options, designed to provide seamless and affordable transport. He acknowledged LBSL’s role in ensuring a smooth and safe commute for residents and asserted that the carbon neutrality policy would further enhance the system’s effectiveness and eco-friendliness.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olawale Musa, reiterated the necessity of setting specific objectives and timelines for regular monitoring and reporting to ensure the policy’s successful implementation. LAMATA’s Managing Director, Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, commended LBSL for its sustainability efforts and achievements over the past five years, attributing their success to the dedication and hard work of the staff.
LBSL’s Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Idowu Oguntona, expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support. He celebrated the company’s growth and its commitment to employee welfare, exemplified by the new state-of-the-art sick bay, and urged staff to maintain their dedication and work ethic, which have been instrumental to LBSL’s success.
