The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has started compensating property owners and tenants affected by its Quality Bus Corridor project.
LAMATA’s ambitious project, which stretches across Ojuelegba, Lawanson, Yaba, and Cele, aims to modernize public transport in Lagos, introducing regulated buses and smart transport systems. This new initiative is seen as a crucial move toward transforming Lagos into a more organized and efficient city.
On October 10, 2024, LAMATA initiated the compensation by distributing cheques to affected tenants in Ojuelegba. On November 1, 2024, the agency extended the compensation to property owners in Surulere Local Government.
Presenting the cheques, LAMATA Managing Director, Engr. Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, expressed gratitude to property owners and tenants for their patience and understanding.
“Your cooperation and sacrifices are essential for the future of Lagos State,” she said. “The government recognizes your contributions and is committed to compensating those who have played a part in making this project possible.”
LAMATA’s representatives clarified that only those with completed documentation verified by the Lagos State Lands Bureau were eligible to receive compensation immediately. Others were asked to visit LAMATA’s head office for assistance.
At the cheque presentation, community leaders from the Ojuelegba area praised the Lagos State Government and LAMATA for their commitment to improving public transportation.
Olusegun Bamiduro, Assistant Secretary of the Ojuelegba Community Development Association (CDA), expressed the community’s appreciation. “This has been a long journey since 2022, and today we see the results,” he said on behalf of the CDA Chairman, Mr. Saheed Bakare.
“We thank the government and all involved parties for their efforts in bringing development to our area,” Bamiduro added, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration.
Alhaji Hakeem Bolaji, Chairman of the Ojuelegba Landlord and Tenants Association, also voiced gratitude for the compensation. He said, “LAMATA’s approach has been fair, and we are glad to see this project moving forward.”
Community members also requested that local youth be given employment opportunities during the project. Bamiduro stated, “We hope LAMATA considers our youths for jobs in construction and after the project’s completion.”
The Quality Bus Corridor project is jointly funded by the Agence Française de Développement and the Lagos State Government. It includes modernizing bus shelters, introducing smart traffic systems, and prioritizing regulated public transport across Lagos’ busiest corridors.
LAMATA’s key technical experts, including Engr. Osa Konyeha and Engr. Adeyemi Adeniji, attended the event to show support and reinforce the project’s importance. Environmental consultant Engr. Babatunde Osho, from Global Impact Environmental Services, was also present, emphasizing the project’s environmental compliance.
