The Lagos State Government has announced plans to expand the pipeline network at the Lekki Industrial Complex.
This initiative aims to significantly reduce road freight traffic and is part of the newly unveiled Lagos State Transport Policy.
The policy is designed to ease congestion on Lagos roadways by minimizing the number of freight vehicles and tankers that rely on road transport.
According to Section 4.14 of the policy, which focuses on pipelines, the expansion in the Ibeju-Lekki area aims to prevent severe congestion similar to what is experienced at the Apapa Port Complex.
“The Government will also promote the expansion of the pipeline network within the State to reduce the number of freight vehicles and tankers using the State’s road network,” the policy states.
With the Dangote refinery and fertilizer plants in the Lekki Industrial Complex expected to generate at least 3,000 vehicle trips daily, the policy stresses the need for alternative freight movement methods to avoid a repeat of the gridlock at Apapa Port.
The statement further explains, “Without appropriate provision on how these vehicles will move, a repeat of the gridlock being experienced at the Apapa Port Complex is inevitable.”
The policy indicates that the Lagos State Government will work with the Federal Ministry of Transport and owners of the industrial complexes to explore alternative ways of moving freight, such as pipelines and rail.
This effort aims to prevent economic losses, mitigate environmental impacts, reduce road damage, and lower the risk of road accidents in the area.
The implementation of this initiative involves several steps outlined in Table 5.1.13 of the policy, titled “Policy Area: Pipeline.”
The Lagos State Government will first prepare the Terms of Reference (TOR) for a study to explore the potential expansion of the pipeline network at the Lekki Industrial Complex. The TOR will detail the study’s objectives, scope, methodology, and other key aspects.
Following the preparation of the TOR, the Lagos State Government will secure the necessary resources, funding, and expertise to conduct the research.
The study will gather data and insights as outlined in the TOR.
After completing the study, the findings will be reviewed and used to develop a detailed implementation plan.
These steps are expected to be carried out within the next two years. The policy also outlines actions for the expansion of pipeline networks within the next two to five years, which include identifying and prioritizing pipeline projects based on their importance and potential impact.
Thorough planning and detailed design will be conducted, including assessing potential roles for private sector involvement. Finally, the government will initiate the execution and construction of the prioritized pipeline projects.
This strategic initiative is expected to significantly reduce road freight traffic, prevent severe congestion, and contribute to the economic and social development of Lagos State.
