The Lagos State government is set to bolster its transportation system with the addition of six new trains to the Blue Line Rail network.
In a statement released on Thursday via its X handle, the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) confirmed the development, highlighting the economic and operational benefits the new trains will bring to the state.
According to LAMATA, the train sets have successfully passed the factory acceptance test and are ready for shipment from China to Lagos. The agency noted that the new rolling stock will increase the frequency of train trips along the corridor and will eventually be deployed for passenger services to Okokomaiko once phase two of the Blue Line is completed.
“The construction of phase two, covering a 14-kilometre stretch from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027. Passenger operations will extend to Okokomaiko shortly thereafter,” the statement read.
The first phase of the Blue Line, spanning 13 kilometres from Marina to Mile 2, was inaugurated by former President Muhammadu Buhari in January 2023. Passenger operations commenced on September 4, 2023, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Currently, the Blue Line conducts 72 trips daily. With the arrival of three additional trains, this number is anticipated to rise significantly, further enhancing transportation efficiency and accessibility in Lagos.
