The Lagos State Government has prohibited the transportation of goods and heavy luggage on all regulated public transport buses across the state, with enforcement set to begin on June 1, 2026.
The directive was announced by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Head of Corporate Communication, Kolawole Ojelabi.
According to the agency, the decision followed increasing complaints from commuters and operational difficulties caused by the use of public buses for transporting goods and bulky items, a development it said had affected passenger comfort, safety and service efficiency.
LAMATA explained that the resolution was reached after a strategic meeting with heads of operations and maintenance of bus operating companies, where stakeholders agreed on the need to stop the practice and restructure the system to better serve commuters while supporting transport operators.
The statement noted that enforcement of the directive would be strict, warning that any bus driver caught conveying goods during the suspension period would face immediate dismissal and blacklisting.
“LAMATA emphasised that the enforcement of the suspension will be strict and uncompromising. Any bus driver found violating the directive by conveying goods during the suspension period will face immediate sack and be blacklisted,” the statement read.
The authority also warned officials against aiding violations of the policy.
“In addition, any ground staff or LAMATA personnel at terminals or loading points found aiding, permitting, or facilitating the loading of goods onto regulated buses will be summarily dismissed without exception,” the statement added.
LAMATA stressed that the government would maintain zero tolerance for violations, reiterating its commitment to improving order, safety and efficiency in the state’s transport system.
The agency urged commuters, transport operators, terminal officials and residents to comply with the directive and seek alternative means for transporting goods.
It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a safe, reliable and commuter-focused transportation system for Lagos residents.
