Managing Director of Primero Transport Services, Mr. Afolabi Tinubu, has said criticism has become a tool for growth rather than a setback for the company as it marks a decade of BRT operations in Lagos.
Against the odds of Nigeria’s volatile economy and relentless public scrutiny, the firm, which celebrated its 10th anniversary last year, is not just surviving but reshaping the city’s mass transit landscape.
In an exclusive interview with JustNet News, Tinubu said: “If you move one million people, 950,000 will never say anything. But the 50,000 you didn’t move on time will go online and say you don’t know what you’re doing.
“Criticism puts us on our toes”.
From pioneering electronic ticketing to installing Wi-Fi and phone charging ports on its buses, he said Primero introduced concepts that redefined commuter experience in Lagos.
“We were the first to introduce electronic ticketing. We were the first to put Wi-Fi in all our buses. Lagosians have really enjoyed our services’.
Describing the decade-long journey as “challenging but uplifting”, Tinubu said the company’s biggest strength has been resilience — powered by loyal staff and patient commuters.
“I’m proud of my staff. Over 90 of them have been with us for eight to 10 years. Through everything we’ve gone through, they stayed”, he said.
He also expressed gratitude to commuters for their endurance.
“To our customers, I say thank you for your steadfastness, your patience and your endurance. We know it hasn’t always been easy, but we are working to improve”.
According to him, ongoing fleet upgrades, including the conversion of 100 buses to CNG engines, will lead to noticeable service improvements in 2026.
“Once those buses join the fleet, the numbers will go up and commuters will see a dramatic improvement”.
As Lagos approaches another political transition season, Tinubu gave a firm assurance about the company’s future.
“10 years from now, we will still be here. We are resilient and we will continue to provide transportation for Lagosians”.