Akeem Lasisi
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu is positively trending online after he announced the inauguration of the Lagos Red Line as part of his government’s efforts at expanding the rail system. The enormous project is the brainchild of his administration and many people who understand its great implications for socio-economic development are not holding back accolades for the governor.
On Facebook, for instance, commemorators are very kind to him, appreciating his commitment to the promise of the Red Line. Since Tuesday when the governor posted the good news on his Facebook page, it has invoked well over 2,000 comments, most of them commending him for a job well done. Well, like Oliver Twist, who is always asking for more, some residents are making special requests in their responses – like someone saying there is no train yet on Island just as another demanded the line be extended to Ikorodu. Another yet said the next thing Sanwo-Olu should do was bring petrol price down to N250 per litre. Hmm.
Announcing the beautiful leap on his Facebook page, the governor said: “Today marks the launch of commercial operations of the LMRT (Lagos Rail Mass Transit) Red Line, kicking off passenger services from Agbado to Oyingbo. We’re on a mission to keep Lagos moving, and the Red Line is a key part of our vision to create a seamlessly connected city. It is also our second rail system to become operational in less than two years.
“Spanning 37 kilometres, the Red Line has eight stations at Oyingbo, Yaba, Mushin, Oshodi, Ikeja, Agege, Iju, and Agbado. The train service is projected to move about 500,000 Lagosians daily as we ramp up the train schedule and provide a viable means of commuting. Daily passenger services will depart from Agbado at 6:00 am, with the second train leaving Iju Station at 7:30 am. Make sure you have your Cowry Card ready to board.
“Just as with the Blue Line and any other public infrastructure, remember that this project belongs to all of us. Let’s treat it with the respect it deserves. Vandalism or disruption will not be tolerated. Together, we can ensure that our trains remain a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
“Together, let’s keep Lagos moving forward.”
Here are a few of the comments greeting the historical declaration:
Ayodele Johnson: My great Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, l pray for you that l will not lose you in the name of Jesus. Amen. Well done.
Paul Alade Daudu: Congratulations to us, Lagos. This is a good work. Mr Governor, I salute you and your team.
Ambassador Dion Osagietv: Digital Governor, I love the development and I’m ready to do my part at no salary for a greater Lagos.
Master Craze: Thank you, Mr. Governor for your kindness. I wish my governors in the east will be humble to learn from you. Then Nigeria can be better.
Anuoluwapo Olushola: This is a new Dubai…
If you know you know…
Green Line and Red line.
Congratulations, Lagos.
I hope each state in Nigeria can have this and also have an inter-state railway like before.
Osogbo to Lagos railway to come alive.
Issa Noheemot: Wow, this is commendable.
My dream of boarding a train is about to come true.
Mbuotidem Chalobah Brain: Apt. This in a way will help caution the effect of exorbitant road fare.
Akomas Amara: Nice one. Sir, I witness the massive construction of both road and rail projects in Lagos.
Gbenga Ade Boye: This is highly commendable. Keep the great work going, Sir. Congratulations.
Gbadamosi Olalekan Sheriff: God bless my Governor.
God bless Lagos State;
God bless Nigeria.
Samuel: Mr Gomina, sir. This is really commendable. Well done. However, Your Excellency, any infrastructural development wey never reach Ikorodu never finish o. Make the lane reach Ikorodu o. Na we dey plenty pass for BRT.
Onyenso Nations: Thank you, Mr Governor.
One thing that always distinguishes good leaders is that they set out plans and execute such accordingly.
Not some that don’t even know why they want to lead.