N4tn Annual Lose In Lagos Due To Traffic Congestion – Report

In a recent study conducted by the Danne Institute for Research, it was disclosed that Lagos, the commercial hub of Nigeria, is losing a staggering N4tn annually, due to profound traffic congestion.

The study, titled ‘Behavioural Causes of Traffic Congestion in Lagos,’ funded by the Bank of Industry and Africa Finance Corporation, explained the necessary actions to alleviate the economic and social toll.

The report was presented on Wednesday in Lagos.
The Executive Director of the Danne Institute for Research, Franca Ovadje noted that the staggering loss could otherwise be directed toward vital sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.

Ovadje further explained that the 21 million-strong population of Lagos is not translating into corresponding productivity due to the crippling impact of traffic jams on daily life.

Also, the report suggests that doubling the population in developing countries should result in a 5 to 6 per cent growth in productivity.

According to the report, government authorities should prioritize these recommendations to enhance productivity, attract investments, and generate substantial internally generated revenue through law enforcement.

It said, “Areas like Ajah, Etiosa, and Apapa bear the brunt, necessitating urgent measures such as nighttime road construction, creation of alternative routes during construction, and strict enforcement of traffic laws."

In conclusion, the report advised a comprehensive campaign against touts and corrupt traffic wardens to restore discipline and order to Lagos roads, essential for transforming the city into a livable and prosperous metropolis.

In 2022, former Permanent Secretary in the Lagos State Ministry of Transport, Taiwo Salaam, noted that if the traffic congestion in the densely populated Lagos should continue unaddressed till 2030, the city is estimated to lose as much as $21bn every month.