Lagos Government Advocates Intermodal Transport to Boost Socio-Economic Growth

Lagos Government Advocates Intermodal Transport to Boost Socio-Economic Growth

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to maximizing intermodal transportation systems to enhance socio-economic activities and reduce traffic congestion across the metropolis.  

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 5th Lagos Real Estate Marketplace Conference and Exhibition, held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, highlighted the urgent need to diversify transportation modes in the state.  

Osiyemi decried the current situation where 90% of transportation activities in Lagos are road-based, while water and rail systems account for only 2%. He emphasized the need to fully utilize alternative transport modes to ease pressure on the roads.  

“Lagos contributes 30% of Nigeria’s GDP, and every sector must play its part in improving the well-being of the people. Traffic congestion costs the state trillions of naira annually, which is unacceptable. The future of Lagos lies in eco-friendly solutions with fewer cars on the road, in line with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda,” he said.  

Affordable Housing and Sustainable Design  

In a panel session moderated by Architect Emmanuel Abikoye, President of the Billionaire Realtors Group, experts discussed affordable housing and sustainable design. Abikoye called for stronger collaboration between the government and realtors, emphasizing the need for modular construction to address housing deficits.  

Architect Emmanuel Falude, Director of the Green Building Council of Nigeria, stressed the importance of material availability and sustainable designs tailored to market demands. He noted that production costs significantly influence housing affordability.  

“Our council is committed to supporting developers at no cost, with the goal of creating a peaceful and sustainable society,” Falude said.  

Land Subsidies and Local Materials  

Panelist Collins Clifford advocated for government subsidies on land costs to facilitate affordable housing. He also emphasized the importance of improving access roads to hinterlands, which would decongest urban areas and create more housing opportunities.  

“Low-income housing for the middle class is achievable by leveraging local materials during construction,” Clifford added.  

 Innovative Housing Solutions  

Eng. Stella Okengwu, CEO of Winhomes, urged industry stakeholders to prioritize housing projects that align with the economic realities of Nigerians. She cited examples from developed countries, where innovative materials such as rubber and ceramics have reduced housing costs by up to 20%.  

Okengwu also called for the adoption of renewable energy solutions, like solar power, to address Nigeria’s energy crisis. “Developers should negotiate affordable repayment plans with solar companies to offer energy-efficient options to clients,” she suggested.  

Theme of the Conference  

Themed *“Reimagining Lagos Landscape: Ensuring Sustainable Real Estate Development Practices”*, the conference underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices in real estate development.  

The event brought together government officials, real estate developers, and industry experts to discuss practical solutions for Lagos’ growing urban challenges, aiming to create a more sustainable and inclusive future for the state.