By ebosele@hotmail.com. –
The development of a comprehensive Freight Policy and Regulatory Framework for Lagos State received a major boost as freight industry stakeholders expressed strong support for the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA)’s initiative to establish a modern, efficient and sustainable freight transport system for the state.
The endorsement came during the second stakeholder engagement forum on the development of the Freight Policy and Regulatory Framework for Lagos State, which focused on Port and Terminal Operators, Private Sector Operators and Service Providers.
The initiative is funded by the French Development Agency (AFD).
Speaking at the forum, the Managing Director of LAMATA, Engr. Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, said the proposed policy is aimed at providing a clear strategic direction for improving freight mobility, enhancing supply chain efficiency and creating a resilient, investment-friendly logistics ecosystem across the Lagos Mega Region.
She noted that the policy is being developed in close collaboration with the private sector because the government alone cannot deliver sustainable freight solutions.
“The knowledge, operational experience and investment capacity of industry stakeholders are essential to designing practical, commercially viable and implementable policies that respond to the realities of freight operations,” she said.
Engr. Akinajo emphasized that the objective of the policy and regulatory framework is not to introduce unnecessary regulations or impose additional burdens on businesses. Rather, it seeks to create an enabling environment that promotes operational efficiency, regulatory clarity, infrastructure optimisation, technological innovation and stronger collaboration among all players within the freight and logistics value chain.
She explained that the vision of “Smart Freight for a Thriving Lagos” is to build an integrated, efficient, safe and sustainable freight ecosystem that reduces logistics costs, improves the movement of goods, enhances Lagos’ competitiveness as West Africa’s leading logistics gateway, and supports inclusive economic growth.
Providing a project overview, the Lead Consultant for the ITS/FAOCON Consortium, Engr. Gboyega Odunlami, said the proposed policy will complement the Lagos Strategic Transport and Mobility Master Plan by addressing critical issues affecting freight movement across the state.
According to him, the framework is expected to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of freight and logistics operations, reduce bottlenecks, delays and unnecessary administrative barriers, while strengthening safety, security and environmental sustainability within the freight transport sector.
Participants at the forum welcomed the initiative and expressed their commitment to working with LAMATA to develop a policy framework that reflects industry realities and supports sustainable economic development.
The stakeholder engagement concluded with an interactive session moderated by the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Professor Samuel Odewunmi, during which participants shared insights and recommendations to enrich the emerging freight policy and regulatory framework.
