The Lagos State Government has criticised some mini-bus operators, known as korope, for blocking traffic along the CMS–Lekki–Epe Expressway.

In a statement from the Ministry of Transportation, the government said the protest happened on Tuesday, February 17, and Wednesday, February 18, 2026. It described the action as a violation of earlier agreements reached with transport unions.

The government said it had held several meetings with the two main transport unions  the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN)  before introducing changes on the Lekki–Epe corridor.

The Special Adviser on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, said the protest goes against the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI), which aims to improve transport services along the busy route.

He said the government worked closely with all stakeholders to provide safe and efficient transportation for residents and urged operators to follow the new reforms.

The Bus Reform Initiative, first discussed in 2024, is designed to reorganise public transport on major roads. The plan includes introducing bigger buses, moving korope buses to inner roads, starting electronic ticketing, regulating operations, and improving security.

At a stakeholders’ meeting held on June 27, 2024, government officials and leaders of NURTW and RTEAN agreed on how the reform would work. Another meeting on December 2, 2025, fixed December 8, 2025, as the start date.

The first phase covers four routes: Ajah–CMS (Marina)/Obalende, Ajah–Oshodi, Ajah–Berger, and Ajah–Iyana Ipaja.

Under the new system, one operator runs express services, while others provide regular stop services.

All buses in the scheme must be painted in Lagos State’s blue-and-white colours. They must also carry QR codes, identification numbers, and Touch and Pay (TAP) stickers. Drivers are required to wear official Ministry of Transportation badges.

Giwa said the government remains committed to improving transport services, ensuring safety, keeping fares stable, and protecting commuters.

The state government added that it will continue discussions with stakeholders but warned that it will strictly enforce the reforms and will not tolerate non-compliance.

Source; PM News