Tola Adenubi, Author at Tribune Online

The Lagos State Government on Friday announced a transition from a paper-based passenger manifest system to a digitalised Interstate Park Accreditation and Passenger Manifest system. Disclosing this in Lagos during a media briefing with Transportation Correspondents, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said that the new initiative is aimed at enhancing safety, reliability, and efficiency in interstate travel across Lagos. According to Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, "The Lagos State Interstate Park Accreditation and Passenger Manifest Digitisation Project is an ambitious programme designed to standardise our interstate parks and digitise the passenger manifest system. This is more than just a modernisation effort; it is a commitment to the safety and comfort of every traveller who moves in and out of Lagos by road. "The goal of this initiative is straightforward; it is to make interstate travel safer, more efficient, and more reliable. "Currently, our passenger manifest system operates on a paper-based approach, which can lead to inefficiencies and delays in critical situations. "By transitioning to a fully digital platform, we aim to securely capture and store passenger information in real-time, providing immediate access to accurate data in the event of any incidents. "Alongside this, we are also implementing an accreditation system for all interstate parks, setting a new standard of quality, safety, and service for all operators. "The first component of this project is the accreditation of all interstate parks across Lagos State. Parks that meet our minimum safety and service standards will receive the Ministry of Transportation’s official certification. "These certified parks will display prominently placed signage, assuring passengers that they are boarding from a park recognised and trusted by Lagos State. For parks that do not meet our standards, particularly the unregulated roadside “mushroom” parks, they will require improvements. This is a collective move towards a safer, more reliable interstate travel experience for every Lagosian. "The second part of this project focuses on transforming our manifest system into a digital, centralised platform. Each passenger’s information will now be digitally recorded, ensuring that data is secure, accurate, and instantly accessible to the necessary authorities. "For the established parks with existing booking systems, we will integrate their systems into our centralised database to ensure continuity and accuracy in data collection. In less formal parks, we will provide the necessary devices and agents to digitise the manifest on-site, ensuring no traveller is left out of this safety enhancement. "This streamlined system will empower first responders with immediate access to essential passenger information, allowing them to act quickly and accurately in emergencies. "This project certainly will benefit the Passengers, Park Operators and the State. For the passengers, they will experience increased safety, reliability, and convenience. Knowing that their travel information is securely recorded offers reassurance that, should any incidents occur, Lagos State’s emergency services are equipped with the tools and data they need to respond effectively. "For accredited park operators, they gain a mark of quality that enhances their reputation and attracts more passengers. With the infrastructure upgrades provided, operators have an opportunity to elevate service quality and play a direct role in creating a safer transportation system. "As for the state, this initiative marks a vital step in the modernisation of our transportation sector. The project not only strengthens public safety but also generates employment opportunities and provides valuable data to guide urban planning and transportation policy. By enforcing park standardisation and leveraging digital technology, Lagos is leading the way in innovative, forward-thinking governance. "In conclusion, the Lagos State Interstate Park Accreditation and Passenger Manifest Digitisation project exemplifies our commitment to building a transportation system that every citizen can rely on. Through this initiative, Lagosians can feel safer, park operators can gain credibility, and Lagos State can continue to set new standards for modern, efficient governance. "We urge you, our distinguished members of the press, to help us cascade this information down to our people in Lagos State. Thank you for your attention, as we look forward to your support as we bring this vision to life, making Lagos safer and more connected for everyone." 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