After launch, “MyLagos App” goes missing on Google Playstore

Following its launch and purported availability for download on app stores, the “MyLagos App” still is not available for download on app stores. Indeed, there is nothing of the sort on the Google PlayStore. This was discovered hours after its groundbreaking launch in the mega city.

On March 13, reports broke out surrounding the launch of the “MyLagos App” by the Lagos State Government in partnership with leading Nigerian telecom provider, MTN Nigeria. The digital platform is designed to simplify city navigation and improve Lagosians’ experience.

In a bid to get hold of the App and navigate through its features, this reporter discovered that the App was nowhere to be found. A search for the App on Google PlayStore reads “No results for MyLagos App”

On another outlook, perhaps the App availability is attached to individuals in Lagos State based on location? Technext reached out to two people in Lagos for a tryout, only to provide the same story of “No result found”. 

The story was pretty much the same for Apple Store where a search for the app displayed the ‘no result for MyLagos’. Trying out another variation where MyLagos is spaced to read My Lagos, the Apple store provided options that contained the three leading ride-hailing platforms in Nigeria; Uber, Bolt and inDrive.

This raises critical concerns about several projects initiated by the government, only to be left with no trace. It further paints several scenarios in which one of the conclusions can be that the MyLagos App is still a work in progress. Another is that the platform might have been available for download during the launch program and removed shortly after the event closure.

Whatever the case may be, let’s take a look at stakeholders’ reactions to what the platform holds.

According to the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the newly launched App is a comprehensive digital solution, offering seamless access to essential city services such as real-time traffic updates, personalized navigation, emergency services, utility payments, business listings, and tourism information.

“Technology has evolved from being a luxury to a necessity. In our fast-paced world, effectively utilizing technology can significantly enhance governance, improve service delivery, and simplify the lives of every resident in this vibrant state. With the launch of the MyLagos App, Lagos State is poised to remain at the forefront of digital transformation, not just in Nigeria but across Africa,” he said.

Mr. Abdulhakeem Giwa, Manager of MTN Digital Channel Management, described the ‘MyLagos App’ as revolutionary. He stated that MyLagos App was designed to transform the urban experience in Lagos, enhancing the quality of life and providing real-time solutions.

“It ensures better and easier navigation for all residents,” he said.

Similar Read: EKEDP and Ikeja Electric were ordered to transition to a Lagos subsidiary by June 2025.

MyLagos App- Not an app built from scratch?

At the launch, Hamzat noted that the MyLagos App was designed and developed by the state government in collaboration with MTN Nigeria and other key stakeholders.

However, this claim is questionable. A click on www.mylagosapp.mobi revealed a platform named “MyLagos App”. This app is a clear similar brand to the newly launched one. Not only that, the website bears the year 2018 copyright with a part stating that:

“MyLagosApp is a product of Paperworks First Real Nigeria Limited, A tech company into development and conceptualization of modern tech products as well as tech consultancy…”

Efforts to get across to the provided contact details of the company yielded no result.

Another disturbing session is the Users Review column where all four reviews on the website were dated July 20, 2017, December 5, 2016, July 24, 2017, and March 8, 2018.

Also in the featured list, the newly launched app has a replica of the items listed under the featured category which includes Traffic updates, Security alerts, Trending news, Tourism and events, Jobs and vacancies, Markets nearby, Business listings, and Transport orders.

Meanwhile, the App is no longer available for download as a click on the “download app on Google Play” displays “Item not found, try again.”

Take away

The absence of the app on Play Stores, combined with the discovery of a similar platform, leaves a series of unanswered questions.

Despite claims by the Lagos State Government that the app was designed and developed by the state government in collaboration with MTN Nigeria, evidence suggests that the app may not be entirely new. 

The similarities between the newly launched app and the existing platform raise concerns about the authenticity of the Lagos State Government’s claims. The featured categories and services listed on the website are identical to those of the “claimed” new app, further fueling suspicions that the app may not be an entirely original development.

The implications of this controversy are far-reaching, with potential consequences for the Lagos State Government’s reputation and the public’s trust in its initiatives. It also raises questions about the government’s ability to deliver on its promises and provide effective solutions to the city’s problems.