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Study faults ‘Lagos Ride’ initiative, seeks sustainable mode of transportation

A study by Centre for Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation (CEMRI) has faulted the limitations embedded in the new e-hailing taxi scheme, known as 'Lagos Ride’.

[FILES] 1000 Cars for the Lagos Ride Taxi Scheme, formally launched by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the Sports Ground, Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja.

A study by Centre for Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation (CEMRI) has faulted the limitations embedded in the new e-hailing taxi scheme, known as ‘Lagos Ride’.

The Lagos State government had signed a partnership agreement with CIG Motors Company Limited to revamp road transportation in the state. The agreement heralded a new e-hailing taxi scheme known as ‘Lagos Ride,’ which kicks off with a pilot fleet of 1,000 cars.

CEMRI in its White Paper Series Number 2022/173, titled,’ tech, transport and sustainability: The undefined prospects of Lagos Ride,’ commended the initiative, saying it was imperative to reflect on the project and explore its prospects and challenges amid the growing clamour for a more sustainable model of transportation and decarbonising transportation.

The report acknowledged that a crucial decision had been taken, which indicates that the cars were bought and seen in convoy on Lagos streets.

According to the report, the question remains what stakeholders can learn from this initiative and possibly if there are things that government can do differently in the future.

“With this additional number of cars, we cannot disregard the impact on traffic congestion in the city. The number of vehicles will increase; yet, road network and infrastructure are not growing to meet this growing demand for transport services.

“Most government and transport operators around the world have recognised the need for decarbonisation. It is imperative to remind governments still investing in the ICE mode of transportation to start looking out for a more sustainable way of transportation.”

The paper critically evaluated the new transport initiatives in Lagos through the lens of technology, transportation and sustainability, to evaluate the undefined prospect of Lagos Ride.

This report stressed the need to look at the prospect and critically evaluate the relevance of the initiative.

It stated that there is a growing need to decarbonise transportation and invest in urban mass transit and infrastructure that will support a more sustainable mode of transportation. It is assumed that the government and policymakers are aware of the need for sustainable transport, but notwithstanding, it is essential to continually provide a reminder about the benefits and for government to take action.

The report noted that research-led policy-making is also essential.

The study also called on researchers interested in transportation management, service quality and urban planning to lure its rigorous research and provide theoretical and managerial implications that stakeholders will find helpful.

The report reiterated the limitations of this piece, and why findings should be interpreted considering those limitations.

The report also presented opportunities for future research, which may involve carrying out an analysis of the Lagos ride hashtag on social media to establish public opinion and attitude towards this initiative.

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