Lagos Taxi scheme to ensure equitable transportation, mobility choices – Sanwo-Olu

GOVERNOR Babajide Sanwo-Olu, today, launched the Lagos State Taxi Scheme, dubbed Lagos Rides, with the introduction of 1000 units of taxis, stating that the scheme is aimed at providing equitable transportation system with mobility choices for Lagosians.

The governor, elated to commission the scheme, said the project is targeted at making life easier for Lagosians, improving mobility and creating a seamless multi-modal transportation system.

He noted that a major attribute of a modern megacity is a world-class transportation system with inter-connected services and mobility choices for the citizens.

 “It is even more heartwarming to note that the Lagos State Taxi Scheme is being inaugurated along with the signing of the agreement for the establishment of a vehicle assembly plant in Lagos State — a project that will create jobs, accelerate socio-economic growth, and further put our state on the global map as the centre of excellence and a modern megacity committed to sustainable development.

“As a people-oriented government, we are constantly on our toes, thinking of ways to make Lagos more habitable for its residents, initiating and implementing ideas to make life better for all Lagosians, and to achieve our dream of a Greater Lagos.

 “A major attribute of a modern megacity is a world-class transportation system with inter-connected services and mobility choices for the citizens. Consequently, the task of bequeathing a safe, efficient, quick, and modern public transportation system is a key thrust of our administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S. Agenda. We are guided by the need for an equitable transportation system with mobility choices for our people.”

The governor stated that the scheme is one of the state government’s socio-economic intervention programmes — a modern ride-hailing service that will be professionally managed in line with global best practices.

“Our social intervention programmes are tailored towards the eradication of poverty, provision of jobs and other employment opportunities as well as the provision of basic necessities, that make good governance our people’s reality.

“Under the Lagos State Taxi Service, drivers/operators will be given the cars for a period of four years during which they pay a monthly installment and they will have the opportunity of owning the cars, after they have fully paid the hire amount. The Lagos State Taxi Service is structured along a profitability model, it is self-sustaining and able to expand and regenerate itself.

“In coming up with a name, logo and colour for the scheme, we took into consideration our heritage as Lagosians, especially our resilient spirit, our cultural heritage, our strength, vibrancy and independence as well as the marketability of the Lagos State Brand. The Lagos State Taxi Service represents everything Lagos State stands for; it is a viable means of promoting the Lagos Brand, and I urge the drivers and operators to be of good conduct; this is their chance to promote Lagos State as a place of opportunities with a level playing ground for everyone who is ready to work hard to accomplish their dreams.

“This Taxi Scheme Partnership with CIG Motors also includes the establishment of a Motor Assembly Plant, here in Lagos, for the production of different classes of motor vehicles, using CKD parts. This is in furtherance of the economic growth agenda of this administration.”

Sanwo-olu noted that the establishment of the Motor Assembly Plant is expected to revive industrialisation, increase citizens’ employment and wealth creation, boost tourism, and encourage technology sharing, adaptation, and advancement.

 “As we commission the taxis and sign the Joint Venture Agreement for the establishment of the Motor Assembly Plant, Lagosians should expect a roll-out of vehicles from this plant within the next 12 to 18 months.”

The governor urged the beneficiaries of the scheme to collaborate with the state government to sustain the scheme, as the state has the political and administrative would to ensure the taxi scheme survives.

“I am hopeful that the operators will cooperate with the Lagos State Government to render excellent service to the people. The drivers should treat riders with utmost respect, handle the vehicles with care, respect traffic laws and avoid any malfeasance. To the riders, please reciprocate the drivers’ respect and help us to improve and sustain the scheme by offering your wise reports and counsel. I wish the drivers, operators and riders pleasurable rides, profitable ventures, and safe travels.”