Sanwo-Olu Warns Against Attacks on LASTMA Officials as Lagos Marks 25 Years of Traffic Reform

Sanwo-Olu Warns Against Attacks on LASTMA Officials as Lagos Marks 25 Years of Traffic Reform

Lagos, Nigeria – July 16, 2025

The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning against the rising trend of assaults on traffic officials, vowing to prosecute anyone found guilty of attacking personnel of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA). Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu gave the warning during the 2nd Lagos Traffic Conference, held to commemorate the 25th anniversary of LASTMA at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, emphasized that LASTMA was established in response to the once-chaotic traffic situation in Lagos. He recalled how the city’s roads were previously plagued by endless congestion, affecting both residents and businesses.

“It was the foresight of then Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu, now President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, that led to the creation of LASTMA exactly 25 years ago,” the Governor stated. “The agency has since promoted road discipline and improved the quality of life for millions of Lagosians.”

Sanwo-Olu insisted that President Tinubu deserves full credit for the visionary policy that laid the foundation for Lagos as a modern mega city. He cautioned against the frequent negative narratives surrounding Nigeria, describing LASTMA as a national success story that should be celebrated.

Fallen Heroes Remembered

The Governor paid tribute to more than 20 LASTMA officers who have died in the line of duty, including Alhaja Giwa Jide, Akinsemoyin, Raymond Isekolowo, and Olufemi Alaba. He assured their families and serving personnel that the state government remains committed to improving staff welfare, including safety measures and support systems.

LASTMA's Journey from 500 to Over 4,000 Officers

In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Shola Giwa, highlighted the growth and impact of LASTMA since its inception. From a modest beginning of 500 officers, the agency now boasts over 4,000 trained personnel managing traffic across major corridors of Lagos, where over 2 million vehicles ply daily.

Giwa noted that Lagos alone accounts for more than 30% of Nigeria’s vehicle population, placing a significant burden on traffic infrastructure. He revealed that the state loses approximately ₦1 trillion annually to traffic congestion and its economic ripple effects.

While acknowledging the challenge of public hostility towards LASTMA officials, he maintained that notable strides have been recorded under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration. He also revealed that road safety education has now been incorporated into school curricula to shape responsible road users from a young age.

Traffic Reform: A National Model

A former Commissioner for Transportation in Lagos State, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, described LASTMA as a “masterstroke in traffic management,” recalling how two officers were tragically killed while trying to resolve the Apapa gridlock.

“LASTMA was the first real attempt to decentralize traffic management in Nigeria,” Opeifa said. “Over 26 states and 4 West African countries have visited Lagos to study the agency's model.”

Police Commend Collaboration with LASTMA

Also speaking, Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Moshood Jimoh, praised LASTMA’s contribution to reducing traffic-related crimes, especially traffic robbery.

“There’s no part of Nigeria with the level of Police-LASTMA synergy we enjoy in Lagos,” he said, adding that smooth traffic flow is crucial for public security and emergency response.

Call for Health Insurance and Better Perception

Hon. Temitope Adewale, Chairman of the Lagos State House Committee on Transportation, urged the state to introduce a health insurance scheme for LASTMA officials, given the dangers associated with their work. He also called for efforts to improve public perception of the agency, urging disciplinary action against errant officials while praising the collaboration between LASTMA and the police.

Royal and Expert Endorsements

In his goodwill message, Oba Folarin Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, described LASTMA as one of the most effective state agencies and commended its leadership for years of dedicated service.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Uttara Sridhar, an international urban mobility expert, advocated for the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and smart technology into traffic management in Lagos.

“Lagos must now adopt AI-driven solutions similar to what’s being used in New York and other major cities,” Dr. Sridhar said. “Body cameras on LASTMA officials will also enhance accountability and expose attacks on personnel.”

A Vision for the Future

With the theme: “Enhancing Traffic Efficiency and Safety on Lagos Roads: Challenges, Opportunities and Innovations,” the 3-day Traffic Conference served as both a celebration of past achievements and a platform for redefining the future of traffic management in Africa’s most populous city.

As LASTMA marks its Silver Jubilee, stakeholders say the agency stands as a testament to what visionary governance and structured reform can achieve — offering lessons not just for Nigeria, but for cities across the continent.