Anthonia Duru
Management of Lagos Bus Services Limited (LBSL) has reassured residents of the State, especially its customers that it will ensure the realization of its mandate of providing Smart and Sustainable Bus Transportation Solutions that will meet the needs of the commuting populace in 2021 and beyond.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LBSL, Mr Idowu Oguntona gave the assurance during the End-Of-The-Year Town Hall Meeting with the Agency’s Stakeholders held at Lagos Bus Services Limited Headquarters, Ilupeju Depot, Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, Lagos recently.
Oguntona disclosed that although the dreaded Covid-19 Pandemic and the #EndSars protest dealt a great blow to the operations of the company this year, the company had re-strategized to put the unfortunate incident behind and work towards the delivery of world-class transportation services in the coming year.
He added that Management of the transportation outfit has also concluded plans to provide a more conducive environment for its personnel, whereby they will be able to maintain organizational standards that will ensure staff are free to perform their duties without fear of assault.
The LBSL Boss said that “it is our plan and resolve that in 2021, we would do a lot better; Covid-19 pandemic came to us as a surprise and affected all plans which included financial projections, but by the resilience of all of you here (stakeholders) the company remained active and will continue to deliver on our mandate to Lagosians.
We are going to ensure that our staff are free to perform their duties without feeling threatened by anyone whilst in the course of duty.
“The Management has put in place mechanisms to ensure all staff abide by the rules and regulations of the company so as to maintain sanity and avoid instances that can affect staff performance”.
The MD/CEO stressed that despite the unprecedented situation brought about by the Covid-19 Pandemic and the #EndSars protests, LBSL was among few establishments in the country, still operating without any dramatic reduction in its workforce, stressing that all matters relating to staff welfare have also been addressed.
Oguntona maintained that although the Covid-19 Pandemic forced the government into regulation that affected the public transportation sector adversely, the development does not threaten the commitment of LBSL to Lagosians and its staff.
He added that the company has been able to weather the storm of myriads of challenges it encountered during the year by increasing its number of Buses from 150 and 215. “One of our biggest successes is the fact that as a company we are still standing whilst regrettably, so many companies have folded up or had to let go much staff.
LBSL is however still able to meet its obligations to Lagosians and staff despite the daunting challenges.”
“Another part of our success story is that the company is still thriving despite the wanton destruction of property and arson during the #EndSars protest. Unfortunately, Lagos state was badly hit by the #EndSars protests that turned violent; as a company, we lost 23 buses which amount to about 10% of our total fleet, despite that, however, we are still thriving. I am proud to say that one of the attributes of our DNA as an organization is resilience”, the LBSL MD/CEO enthused.
Oguntona also seized the opportunity to advise members of staff especially drivers against engaging in acts that may be detrimental to the success of the company.
The MD/CEO stated “To whom much is given much is expected, 2020 was an unusual year and we overlooked so many negative things, but I would like to put it on record that in 2021 we would take very seriously any incident of bad behaviour, underperformance, reckless driving and poor customer relations. In 2021, the company will not hesitate to wield the stick in case of any erring staff.
“We must protect our commonwealth (Buses) because these buses are what approximately 700 direct and over a 1000 indirect workforce are relying on for their daily or monthly remuneration, so we will not tolerate any bad conduct that can jeopardize the image of the company. This year, there were certain incidents which occurred, however these acts of poor conduct have got to stop as anyone found wanting would be held accountable.”
Mr Oguntona used the opportunity to mention that the company remains grateful for the patronage received this year and was geared up to serve Lagosians better in the forthcoming year.
He expressed appreciation to Mr Governor; Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for the unflinching support, doggedness, encouragement, and the confidence he reposed in the ability of the company to stand tall during and after these trying periods, this no doubt; geared us to successes in the company.
He, however, wishes Lagosians a Merry Christmas and prosperous new year. He reminded us that as we celebrate this season, we should endeavour to observe all COVID-19 protocols, wear a Mask/Face covering and Stay Safe.
He closed his remark by advising the public to imbibe the culture of using public bus transit, to eliminate unnecessary traffic gridlock on roads, reduce stress and cost of maintaining their vehicles.
