Lagos is set to begin regulated bus services on the Lekki–Epe corridor on December 8, introducing 229 high- and medium-capacity buses as part of the first phase of its new transit reform initiative.

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority announced on Tuesday that this rollout represents the initial stage of the Lekki–Epe Bus Reform Scheme.

The new system will feature exclusive, government-regulated bus services on key routes, including Ajah–CMS/Marina, Ajah–Obalende, Ajah–Oshodi, Ajah–Berger, and Ajah–Iyana Ipaja.

One operator will manage an express service, while others will operate stage-by-stage routes. All buses will feature the standard blue-and-white Lagos regulated livery, QR-enabled PTCS verification stickers, unique identification codes, and Touch and Pay stickers.

“The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), and representatives of informal bus operators have concluded a final stakeholder meeting ahead of the commencement of exclusive regulated bus operations of the Lekki–Epe Bus Reform Scheme, scheduled to begin on December 8, 2025.

“The service, the first phase of the reform, which will ultimately extend to Epe, will operate along the following routes: Ajah–CMS (Marina)/Obalende, Ajah–Oshodi, Ajah–Berger, and Ajah–Iyana Ipaja.

“…the 229 high- and medium-capacity buses will be deployed in this initial phase,” the statement read in part.

LAMATA stated that the initiative is designed to improve commuter safety, comfort, and operational discipline along the corridor.

Payments will be entirely cashless via the Cowry card, with the state warning that any driver, ground staff, or commuter involved in cash transactions will face arrest and prosecution.

The statement also highlighted that the Special Adviser on Transportation to the Lagos State Governor,
Hon. Sola Giwa, said the government is collaborating with stakeholders to phase out aging vehicles and gradually relocate korope buses from major highways to feeder and community routes.

He added that the reform supports efforts to fully formalise transit operations and reinforce the First and Last Mile bus scheme.

Previously, commuters along the Lekki–Epe corridor depended largely on personal vehicles or unregulated commercial buses, commonly called korope or danfo buses, carrying 7 to 16 passengers.

These informal services frequently make multiple stops along the route, resulting in longer, less comfortable, and more costly journeys.