In what seems to be the first cashless policy in some key sectors of the Lagos State economy, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced that the Lekki/Ikoyi toll bridge would become cashless in the next couple of weeks.
This new development was disclosed by Sanwo-Olu while giving an account of his activities in the first 100 days he has spent in the office.
Reason for the new policy: Sanwo-Olu gave his reasons, stating that when the new cashless policy is put in place, it will reduce the traffic congestion that the bridge is known for, especially during rush hour.
The governor said that the traffic is usually caused by queues of motorists seeking to pay the toll fare. According to him, to ease the traffic, there needs to be less human contact as much as possible.
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What this means: Although the details are not yet clear, however, this might mean that motorists will no longer have to pay with cash at the toll gates but instead can easily make payment directly to the payment portal.
Why this matters: This is a welcome development as it will help motorists save time and fuel used while waiting to pay the toll fees. It will also help ease and authenticate the process, thereby curbing corruption which will result in economic growth.
It will aid the reduction in the risk of cash-related crimes as the citizens will be sure that their money is going to the right place and being used for the greater good for the community.
Meanwhile, Sanwo-Olu reiterated his stance on making Lagos better. He said, “We remain committed to a Lagos where there would be Traffic Management and Transportation; Health and Environment; Education and Technology; a Lagos of 21st Century Economy; Entertainment and Tourism as well as Security and Governance urging all to contribute their quota to make these a reality.”
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What they need to do is to add a surcharge of say N100 for cash payment