Lagos is about to witness a major facelift in its public transportation system. Commuters on the notoriously busy Lekki–Epe axis can finally look forward to a cleaner, safer, and more organized journey as the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) confirms the launch of a revolutionary new bus scheme set for December 8, 2025.
Dubbed the Lekki–Epe Bus Reform Scheme, this initiative represents the first major phase of a comprehensive plan to formalize and sanitize one of the state’s most critical corridors, promising a complete overhaul of the current informal system.
The New Fleet and Exclusive Routes
The announcement, made on Tuesday by LAMATA, detailed an aggressive initial rollout aimed at hitting the ground running.
229 high- and medium-capacity buses will be deployed in the starting phase. These buses will introduce exclusive, government-regulated services on key routes, effectively streamlining movement and reducing chaos.
-
Ajah–CMS/Marina (including an express service)
-
Ajah–Obalende
-
Ajah–Oshodi
-
Ajah–Berger
-
Ajah–Iyana Ipaja
While some operators will run express services, others will handle the traditional stage-by-stage operations, ensuring that both speed and accessibility are catered for across the routes.
Focus on Standards and Technology
One of the most significant changes under this reform is the compulsory standardization and regulation of the participating fleet.
All buses operating under the scheme will strictly carry the familiar blue-and-white Lagos regulated colours. Furthermore, they will feature modern verification technology, including:
-
QR-enabled PTCS Verification Stickers
-
Unique Identification Codes
-
Touch and Pay (TAP) Stickers for seamless, cashless transactions.
This move marks a definitive push towards formalizing the transit sector, enhancing transparency, and improving the commuter experience to global standards.
Elevating Commuter Experience
According to LAMATA, the initiative stems from a final consensus reached with informal bus operators and key stakeholders. The core mission is clear: to drastically enhance commuter safety, comfort, and operational discipline along the corridor.
This initial service focuses on key routes but will ultimately extend all the way to Epe, linking the entire eastern axis of the state with Lagos’s central hubs. The success of this rollout is expected to serve as a blueprint for reforming other major transit routes across the bustling mega-city.
What are your thoughts on Lagos’s new bus reform? Will this finally solve the Lekki–Epe gridlock?
Share your predictions and experiences in the comments!
