Traditional rulers back Lagos Purple Rail Line, urge timely completion, youth engagement
Traditional rulers along the proposed route of the 57-kilometer Purple Line rail project have thrown their weight behind the initiative, highlighting its potential to drive community development and transform local infrastructure.
During a sensitisation visit organised by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), monarchs in key host communities expressed their enthusiasm for the project while urging the government to prioritise job creation and ensure timely delivery. The visit, held as part of LAMATA’s royal engagement exercise, included meetings with HRM (Dr.) Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello (Olanwa) Olofin V of Isheri Olofin, HRM Oba Hammed Orelope Laka of Egbeda, and HRM Alh. Oba Lasisi Gbadebo Gbadamosi, the Onigando of Igando land.
The monarchs commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for initiating the Purple Line project, which is set to connect Volkswagen on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway to Redemption City. They acknowledged the project’s significance in enhancing mobility and stimulating economic activities along its corridor.
Oba Gbadamosi of Igando shared a personal story about how past infrastructure development affected his ancestral home, emphasizing the importance of inclusive planning. He stressed that the government must involve local communities from the outset to avoid unintended consequences and ensure the project reflects their needs.
Although optimistic about the project’s impact, the traditional leaders urged LAMATA to remain committed to delivering the Purple Line within schedule. They also emphasized the need for youth in affected communities to be given priority in employment and capacity-building opportunities tied to the rail project.
The LAMATA team, led by Head of Corporate Communication Kolawole Ojelabi, included Dipo Quadri, Architect Dipo Oshobu, and Engr. Babatunde Osho from Global Impact Environmental Consulting Limited, the consulting firm overseeing the environmental aspect of the project. The delegation conducted briefings with community leaders, market groups, and residents to gather feedback and address early concerns.
LAMATA noted that the engagement was part of a phased approach to community inclusion, with a broader stakeholder forum planned after the detailed design phase is completed. This strategy, the agency said, ensures that community voices are integrated into the final project blueprint.
The transport authority also disclosed strong interest from the African Development Bank (AfDB) in supporting the Purple Line. This backing is expected to provide vital financial support, reinforcing the Lagos State Government’s commitment to expanding its transport infrastructure and easing urban mobility.
