The Lagos Red Line Rail System commenced work yesterday kicking off passenger services from Alagbado to Oyingbo.

The governor of the state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu excitedly expressed his feelings in a statement, giving out the rail itinerary: “We’re on a mission to keep Lagos moving, and the Red Line is a key part of our vision to create a seamlessly connected city.

“It is also our second rail system to become operational in less than two years. Spanning 27 kilometers, the Red Line has eight stations at Oyingbo, Yaba, Mushin, Oshodi, Ikeja, Agege, Iju, and Agbado.

“The train service is projected to move about 500,000 Lagosians daily as we ramp up the schedule and provide a viable means of commuting.

“Daily passenger services will depart from Agbado at 6:00 AM, with the second train leaving Iju Station at 7:30 AM. Make sure you have your Cowry Card ready to board. Just as with the Blue Line and any other public infrastructure, remember that this project belongs to all of us.” The governor added.

He warned users against vandalizing the government property as he urged them to treat it with respect:

“Let’s treat it with the respect it deserves. Vandalism or disruptions will not be tolerated—together, we can ensure that our trains remain a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Together, let’s keep Lagos moving forward.”

The first was the Blue Line Rail commissioned by former President Muhmmadu Buhari, and running on the Lagos-Badagry corridor from CMS to Mile 2.

The Red Line is expected to significantly cut travel time and create a high level of convenience for passengers.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) had already presented the operator, Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), with the requisite licences to operate the two metro lines.

LAMATA said in a statement via its official X (formerly Twitter) account that the NRC granted a three-year operational licence to the Blue Line and a six-month temporary licence to the Red Line.

According to the schedule, the train runs twice at peak periods- morning and evening, leaving Agbado by 6am, getting to Iju by 6:07am, arriving Agege by 6:10am, Ikeja by 6:29am, Oshodi by 6:40am, Mushin by 6:49am, Yaba by 6:57 am and Oyingbo by 7:07am.