LAMATA responds to trending bus video, promises fleet expansion

…seek private investment to address bus shortage

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has responded to a trending video showing frustrations faced by commuters using the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in the state, assuring residents that efforts are underway to expand the fleet and to meet rising transport demand.

In a statement signed by Kolawole Ojelabi, head corporate communication, LAMATA, stated that the increasing demand for additional buses across the network is largely driven by the relatively affordable and reliable services available within the regulated public transport system.

The authority noted that in the context of global economic pressures and rising fuel costs, regulated transport has become an essential mobility lifeline for many Lagosians.

“To address this growing demand, LAMATA is actively working with private sector partners to accelerate the introduction of more buses into the system,” the statement read.

Read also: LAMATA releases new BRT fares following 13% increase

A TikTok influencer known as @darksinned.ella has been posting videos on her social media platform, showing challenges faced by commuters, from early departures from home to long queues and delays both in the morning and evening at a BRT park in Ikorodu, Lagos state.

With a current post showing a specific encounter with a bus supervisor who told her to stop taking public videos at the park, and in response to this incident, LAMATA clarified that the individual involved is a supervisor employed by a private Bus Operating Company (BOC) and is not a direct employee of LAMATA.

“Nevertheless, as the regulator of the system, LAMATA takes such concerns seriously and continues to engage with operators to ensure that service standards and commuter experience are maintained,” the statement read.

LAMATA also advised content creators to be mindful of existing privacy laws when producing and sharing content on public transport.

“We have received complaints from commuters regarding the unauthorized capture and publication of their images and videos online.

“Content creators are therefore urged to respect the privacy of passengers and obtain appropriate consent where necessary. LAMATA will not be held responsible for any breach of commuters’ privacy resulting from content created or published by third parties,” the authority stated.

According to LAMATA, the state government has made significant investments in world-class transport infrastructure, including rail systems, water transport terminals, and dedicated bus corridors.

“To fully maximize these assets, greater operational capacity is required,” LAMATA stated while calling for private sector participation in the public transport ecosystem.

“There remains substantial opportunity for investors and operators to contribute the fleet capacity needed to move Lagos efficiently and sustainably.

“LAMATA remains committed to ensuring that every Lagosian has access to safe, reliable, affordable, and dignified transportation,” the statement read.