Lagos govt bans movement of goods on public buses

Lagos State Government has banned the movement of goods and heavy luggage on all regulated public transport buses across the state, with enforcement to begin on June 1, 2026.
The directive was disclosed by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority in a statement made available to Newsmen on Tuesday by its Head of Corporate Communication, Kolawole Ojelabi.

According to LAMATA, the decision followed growing complaints and operational challenges caused by the increasing use of regulated buses for transporting goods and heavy loads, a development the authority said had affected passenger comfort, safety and efficient service delivery.

The authority explained that the decision was reached after a strategic meeting with heads of operations and maintenance of bus operating companies, where stakeholders unanimously agreed that the practice must be halted and reorganised to ensure a more balanced and sustainable transport system.
LAMATA warned that enforcement of the directive would be strict, stressing that any bus driver caught conveying goods during the suspension period would face immediate dismissal and blacklisting.
The statement added that any ground staff or LAMATA personnel found aiding or permitting the loading of goods onto regulated buses would also be summarily dismissed.
The authority maintained that there would be zero tolerance for non-compliance, noting that the government remained committed to restoring order, safety and efficiency within the state’s public transportation system.
Commuters, transport operators and terminal officials were urged to comply fully with the directive and make alternative arrangements for the movement of goods.
LAMATA reiterated its commitment to providing a safe, reliable and commuter-focused transportation system for Lagos residents.