Red and Blue Rail Networks in Ogun to Launch by 2024, Declares Abiodun 

In an ambitious infrastructural push, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has unveiled plans for the anticipated Ogun Rail red and blue networks. These major transport projects, developed in collaboration with the Lagos State Government, are set to be operational by 2024. 

Detailed in the 2024-2026 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) of Ogun State, the Ogun Rail is aimed to revolutionize transport within and outside the state.

What the Ogun Rail entails

The red rail line is projected to extend the Lagos line at the Agbado rail terminus, heading towards Marina. On the other hand, the blue rail line is planned to traverse from Agbara through Okokomaiko-Iganmu, eventually reaching the National Theatre in Lagos. This strategic endeavor, starting in 2024, is among several capital projects initiated by the Ogun State Government.

This collaboration finds its roots in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) inked last year between the Ogun and Lagos State Governments. The MoU emphasized the shared vision of connecting the red and blue rail lines. 

This move intends to capitalize on the rail extensions in Ogun State, a significant step under the Lagos-Ogun Joint Development Commission initiatives.

How the project is proposed

Governor Abiodun, speaking at the Citizens’ Engagement on the 2024 Budget and the 2024-2026 MTEF in Ijebu-Ode, emphasized that the Ogun Rail’s red and blue lines reflect the state’s commitment to a multimodal transport system. Such a system, as he noted, is crucial for facilitating the seamless movement of people, goods, and services both within and beyond the state’s boundaries.

Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, representing the governor at the event, further highlighted that the state’s vision goes beyond just rail. Ogun’s multimodal strategy encompasses the development of air, rail, and road transport systems. All these are being built simultaneously, bearing the goal of bolstering the economy and enhancing logistics.

Moreover, Governor Abiodun also spotlighted other developments in the pipeline. These include a dry port in Wasinmi, Kajola, and synergies with the private sector to construct a logistics hub at Wasinmi. Emphasizing sustainable practices, he mentioned the launch of e-mobility and Gas Mobility Projects in June 2023. These projects intend to propel mass transport systems with electricity and gas, aiming to minimize gas emissions and secure carbon credits for the state.

One cannot overlook the Agro Cargo Airport project, centered in the Ijebu-Remo divisions. Governor Abiodun envisions this as not just an airport but the heart of their upcoming Aerotropolis. This unique community is also slated to feature a Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ).

All these developments collectively underscore Ogun State’s dedication to infrastructural advancement, with the Ogun Rail project leading the charge into a future of connected and sustainable growth.