LAMATA engages communities in Purple Line rail project scoping workshop
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) hosted a scoping workshop for its 57-kilometer Purple Line rail project, receiving strong support from affected communities. The initiative aims to enhance transportation infrastructure and connectivity across Lagos.
The event, held in Alimosho Local Government, brought together key stakeholders, including community leaders, government officials, and environmental experts, to discuss the project’s impact and benefits.
Among the notable attendees were representatives of the Minister for Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Lagos State Commissioner for Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, and Oba Ibrahim Olasukanmi Lawal Bello of Isheri Olofin Kingdom, whose chiefs represented him at the event.
LAMATA representatives, led by Head of Corporate Communication, Mr. Kolawole Ojelabi, provided an in-depth briefing on the Purple Line’s scope. They emphasized its role in easing traffic congestion, enhancing mobility, and driving economic growth in Lagos. The railway line is expected to transform transportation in the state by improving connectivity between key areas.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Babatunde Osho of MD Global Impact Environmental Consulting Limited announced that a socio-economic baseline survey for the project will commence on Friday. He urged community leaders to spread awareness within their respective localities to ensure residents are informed and prepared.
Community members welcomed the project, acknowledging its potential to improve their quality of life. However, they also voiced key concerns, including requests for employment opportunities for locals, the provision of park-and-ride services, and fair compensation for any disruptions the project might cause.
Other prominent community leaders present included Ojo Samuel Oluseun (C.D.C Chairman), Lawal Kabiru A. Kareem (CDC Chairman, Egbe-Idimu), Ven Adewusi S.A, Mrs. Aladeloye Olabimpe (Federal Ministry of Environment), Hon. Dare Ogunyinka, and Hon. Abolarinwa O. Oladele. Their presence underscored the importance of community involvement in the project’s planning and execution.
The workshop concluded on a positive note, with LAMATA reiterating its commitment to working closely with affected communities to ensure a smooth implementation of the Purple Line rail project. The agency assured stakeholders that their concerns would be addressed, reinforcing its mission to develop a modern, efficient, and inclusive transport system for Lagos.
