The Lagos State Ministry of Transport has launched an interstate fleet accreditation and passenger manifest digitization program aimed at improving safety, reliability and efficiency in interstate travel across the state.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Thursday, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described the initiative as an ambitious effort to standardize interstate parks and modernize the passenger manifest system.

He said: “This is more than just a modernization effort; is a commitment to the safety and comfort of every traveler moving in and out of Lagos by road. The goal of this initiative is simple, it is to make interstate travel safer, more efficient and more reliable.”

“Currently, our passenger manifest system operates on a paper-based approach, which can lead to inefficiencies and delays in critical situations. By transitioning to a fully digital platform, we aim to securely capture and store passenger information in real-time, providing immediate access to accurate data in the event of any incidents.”

“In addition, we are also implementing an accreditation system for all interstate parks, setting a new standard for quality, safety and service for all operators.”

How the process works

Osiyemi explained that the first part of the project involved the accreditation of all interstate parks in Lagos State, stating that parks that meet the minimum safety and service standards will receive official certification from the ministry.

He noted that these certified parks will display prominent signage, assuring passengers that they are boarding from a state-recognized and trusted facility. For parks that do not meet these standards, especially the unregulated “mushroom” roadside parks, improvements would be required as part of a collective effort for safer and more reliable interstate travel for Lagos residents.

The Commissioner further described the second part of the project, which aims to transform the passenger manifest system into a digital, centralized platform. He explained that each passenger’s information will be digitally recorded, ensuring secure, accurate data that will be easily accessible to the relevant authorities.

According to him, Lagos currently had 30 regulated parks while over 100 parks remained unregulated with ongoing efforts to bring them into the system. He noted that stakeholder meetings have been organized and are ongoing, with a pilot program already underway in Ojota.

He further emphasized that the project will benefit passengers, park operators and the state. Passengers would enjoy increased safety, reliability and convenience, while accredited park operators would gain a quality brand that would enhance their reputation and attract more passengers.

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