Detty December in Lagos: A City That Desperately Needs Better Transportation

Kenny Akintola

It’s 5 a.m., and my alarm jolts me awake. The day begins at the gym—a quick hour of sweat before I dive into the chaos. By 7 a.m., I’m already on-site, navigating meetings with contractors. Midday, I manage to squeeze in some self-care at the salon and spa. As evening approaches, it’s time to head to yet another event, ready to network and unwind. But instead of breezing through the city, I find myself stuck in traffic at 5 p.m., barely making progress. The roads are clogged, thanks to the IJGBs—“I Just Got Back” returnees who flood Lagos during Detty December, adding to an already overstretched transportation system.

This is the harsh reality of life in Lagos every December. The city comes alive with parties, concerts, and an endless stream of activities, but the traffic is unbearable. From dawn to dusk, Lagos is gridlocked, leaving residents frustrated and visitors overwhelmed. It’s a clear sign that the city urgently needs a modern, efficient, and viable alternative transportation system.

The Need for Metro Stations in Lagos
As one of Africa’s largest and most vibrant cities, Lagos should be leading the way with functional urban transportation. Instead, it struggles under the weight of millions of daily commuters. Imagine a Lagos where metro stations in key locations like Lekki, Ikoyi, Ikeja, and Surulere ease the burden on the roads and provide a faster, more efficient way to get around.

•Lekki and Ikoyi: These bustling economic and residential hubs could benefit immensely from metro stations, cutting down commute times for workers and residents alike.

•Ikeja: As the state capital and home to the international airport, Ikeja is a critical transportation node. A metro station here would streamline travel for both locals and international visitors.

•Surulere: Known for its cultural significance and major events, Surulere could become a more accessible hotspot with metro connectivity.

Fast Trains from the Airport to the Island

One of the most significant pain points for travelers is the journey from Murtala Muhammed International Airport to the Island. A fast train connecting the airport to areas like Victoria Island, Lekki, and Ikoyi could cut travel times dramatically, ensuring a smoother experience for visitors and residents alike.

This type of infrastructure would not only ease traffic congestion but also elevate Lagos’s status as a modern, global city, ready to welcome the world.

A Revenue Goldmine for Lagos State

December is a golden opportunity for Lagos State to generate significant revenue. The influx of IJGBs and tourists brings with it massive spending potential—from nightlife and entertainment to hospitality and retail. However, the current state of traffic and security often leaves visitors frustrated, cutting short their stay or limiting their activities.

A well-connected transportation system would enable visitors to explore more areas of the city without the stress of endless traffic. Combined with improved security, Lagos could encourage tourists and returnees to stay longer, attend more events, and spend more money, boosting the economy.

Imagine the potential revenue from ticket sales for metro systems, increased patronage for local businesses, and heightened interest from foreign investors impressed by the city’s efficient infrastructure. Detty December alone could become a major contributor to Lagos’s annual revenue if the government invests in making the city more accessible and stress-free.

The Future is Bright, If We Act Now

Detty December will always be part of Lagos’s charm. But as the city grows, it needs infrastructure that can keep up with its energy. A metro system with fast trains, enhanced security, and a focus on reducing daily stress could transform Lagos into a city that works for everyone—residents, visitors, and IJGBs alike.

Let’s imagine a Lagos where traffic is no longer a constant battle, where movement is seamless, and where December is not just detty but delightful. It’s time to invest in the future and give Lagos the transportation and security systems it deserves. After all, we don’t just need a vibrant city; we need one that turns its energy into economic opportunity.

*Kenny Akintola is the Chief Facility Officer, Express business support Ltd