The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to redesign the Oshodi Transport Interchange (OTI) as part of efforts to integrate the city’s burgeoning Rail Mass Transit system.
This strategic move, announced by the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, is aimed at optimizing the interchange to accommodate the anticipated Red Line rail project, which will connect with the existing Blue Line.
In a statement released on Sunday, Osiyemi outlined that the government is committed to addressing the current challenges facing the OTI, particularly in anticipation of the increasing transportation demands brought on by the integration of rail services.
He emphasized that a thorough redesign and operational review are necessary to align the facility with global transportation standards and best practices.
“The review will involve extensive consultations with key stakeholders to assess the current state of the interchange and identify effective solutions for enhancing its operational efficiency,” Osiyemi said. “We believe that with this review, we can implement changes that will elevate the OTI’s functionality and overall service quality.”
To ensure the redesign meets all the necessary criteria, the Ministry of Transportation will conduct on-site visits, gathering data and feedback from stakeholders. The goal is to make informed decisions that will improve both the infrastructure and services at OTI, transforming it into a modern, efficient transport hub.
Addressing one of the critical issues surrounding the OTI, Osiyemi highlighted the challenge of street hawking in the vicinity, which has raised concerns about pedestrian and commuter safety.
In response, the ministry is rolling out a comprehensive enforcement initiative, partnering with law enforcement agencies to tackle this issue and restore order around the interchange.
“We are committed to creating a safer, more organized space at OTI, where pedestrians and commuters can move freely and efficiently,” Osiyemi added. “Our collaborative approach with law enforcement will ensure compliance with regulations and help maintain order at the interchange.”
Osiyemi also urged all stakeholders to submit feedback on potential areas for improvement before the next site inspection. This collaborative effort will allow the ministry to tailor solutions that address specific concerns, creating a seamless and functional transport hub that meets the needs of Lagos residents.
With these proactive measures in place, the Lagos Ministry of Transportation aims to enhance the OTI’s capacity, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of the city’s integrated mass transit system.
The redesigned interchange is expected to provide a more efficient and user-friendly experience for commuters, reinforcing Lagos’s commitment to modernizing its public transport infrastructure.
