Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has outlined plans to strengthen the state’s transport system through greater investment in electric vehicles, rail and water transportation, saying the initiatives could reduce operating costs and make commuting more affordable for residents.
Hamzat explained that the adoption of electric vehicles would help reduce the high operating costs associated with diesel and petrol, with the savings potentially translating into lower transportation costs for commuters.
He proposed an integrated transport network linking strategic routes and terminals across the state, including Ikorodu, Badore, Victoria Island, Marina and other major destinations.
According to him, expanding rail and water transportation alongside road-based mobility would give Lagos residents more commuting options while easing pressure on the road network.
On healthcare, Hamzat said Lagos’ rapidly growing population made it necessary to expand healthcare infrastructure across the state.
He specifically highlighted plans to expand the Ikorodu General Hospital and other major healthcare facilities to meet rising demand. He stressed that the expansion would not be limited to physical structures but would also include adequate accommodation for doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals.
The Deputy Governor said providing suitable living conditions for health workers was essential to ensuring that hospitals were properly staffed and capable of delivering quality and accessible healthcare services.
Addressing the issue of water supply, Hamzat acknowledged the challenges faced by residents and explained that Lagos’ dependence on water sources in neighbouring Ogun State made inter-state cooperation and appropriate compensation arrangements necessary.
He said the completion of the Adiyan Water Project and associated pipeline infrastructure would substantially increase Lagos’ water production and distribution capacity, potentially extending access to millions of additional residents.
Hamzat also called for stronger citizen participation in the development of the state, stressing that government alone could not build every institution or solve every societal challenge.
He urged individuals, businesses and organisations to see themselves as partners in development, noting that citizens in developed countries routinely contribute to education and other critical sectors.
“Individuals and organisations in developed countries contribute to education and other areas of development. So we as citizens of this great nation must see ourselves as partners in building a better society,” he said.
