The Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) will today at its Oshodi Headquarters, inaugurate a call centre with toll-free lines aimed at providing timely assistance and information to road users. 

The Special Adviser to to Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, who bre the news yesterday said the call centre is designed to enhance LASTMA’s reputation and restore public trust in the agency.

Giwa emphasized that the centre’s role in promoting professionalism among the agency’s officers when interacting with the motoring public. 

He stated that the call centre, equipped with toll-free lines, will have over 10 responders dedicated to addressing traffic management issues and complaints from motorists.

“We will introduce dedicated toll-free phone lines for individuals to report any road-related incidents or emergencies,” said Hon. Giwa.

Additionally, the Special Adviser confirmed that the call centre will accommodate communication in English, Pidgin, and Yoruba.

“Monitoring and prioritizing feedback will be central to the agency’s operations, especially in addressing instances of officer misconduct. 

Hon. Giwa encouraged the public to provide feedback not only on negative experiences but also to commend exemplary conduct by agency personnel,” he added.

The launch will also include a Walk-in Complaint Centre, a new website, a Whistleblower Application, and an upgraded LASTMA Department of Statistics, Research and Data.

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The Special Adviser to the Governor, Mr. Sola Giwa, who confirmed the incident said the accident occurred at about 6:15 am at Sifax, inward Iganmu Bridge, Lagos.

Giwa said that the driver of a loaded containerized truck lost control of the truck while descending the Iganmu Bridge and the truck fell sideways, on the female biker.

The driver fled the scene upon realising the enormity of the accident.

“Immediately after the incident, LASTMA personnel called in other emergency responders, including the Lasema Response Unit (LRU), for a rescue operation,” Giwa said.

He added that the deceased’s body was taken away by personnel from the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), and the containerized truck was evacuated to clear the way for free vehicular movement on Iganmu Bridge.

While expressing his condolences to the family of the deceased, Hon. Giwa warned truck drivers to adhere to speed limits both within and outside the state.

He also advised motorcycle operators, both commercial and private to obey traffic rules and regulations as stipulated in the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.

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The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, confirmed this figure today during a meeting with relevant stakeholders in the transportation industry.

Mr. Bakare-Oki further disclosed that 3,034 private vehicles were impounded, including 1,849 cars, 549 buses, and 636 Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), among others.

According to the General Manager, “256 casualties were recorded during this period.”

He urged the motoring public, especially motorists to obey all traffic rules and regulations and to respect traffic managers.

“In the last six months, it has been a mix of good, bad, and ugly, but we have managed to overcome many challenges, particularly in training and retraining our personnel,” Bakare-Oki said.

“We have successfully trained 2,000 of our staff, both internally and externally.”

He revealed that over 900 personnel were trained externally in collaboration with the training department of the Nigerian Police, Lagos Command.

Additionally, more than 1,200 traffic officers received training from three different consultants on leadership skills, emotional intelligence, customer care, and incident management.

“We are undertaking these initiatives to improve our service delivery to Lagos residents. LASTMA aims to rebuild public confidence, particularly in public relations.”

Mr. Bakare-Oki announced that the authority’s call center would be launched soon and would be toll-free, accommodating English, Yoruba, and Pidgin to facilitate feedback.

Regarding enforcement, the General Manager highlighted that LASTMA began by clearing the Apapa Port area, conducting several operations to remove trucks and tankers parked indiscriminately along the Apapa route.”Apart from the Apapa corridor and Iyana-Ipaja, we also cleared areas like Idumota, Apogbon, CMS, and the Lekki-Ajah axis, improving the level of orderliness in these areas. We have made significant strides across the five divisions in Lagos in terms of enforcement, and this effort is ongoing.”

“We are committed to improving travel time for Lagos residents, especially during peak periods,” he said. Mr. Bakare-Oki added that LASTMA is taking all necessary measures to enhance traffic management in the state, including the deployment of over 2,000 traffic equipment.

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The operation, led by LASTMA Head of Enforcement Mr. Kayode Odunuga, under the directive of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, specifically targeted illegal garages that have been a persistent source of congestion and inconvenience for residents and commuters.

The Special Adviser confirmed that this impoundment exercise, which began in recent weeks, is part of a broader initiative by the Lagos State Government to enhance the efficiency of the city’s transportation network.

Giwa emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order on the roads, ensuring that all traffic regulations are strictly enforced.

“illegal garages have been a significant challenge in our quest to maintain a seamless traffic flow in Lagos. These impoundments send a strong message to all offenders that the state will not tolerate activities that disrupt public order and endanger the lives of our citizens,”

“Our goal is to create a safe and orderly environment for all road users and this action is a crucial step in that direction.”

The targeted areas, Oyingbo, Ijora, and Idumota, are known hotspots for traffic congestion due to unauthorized parking and the establishment of makeshift garages

These activities not only obstruct the free movement of vehicles but also pose safety risks to pedestrians. LASTMA’s intervention aims to clear these bottlenecks and enhance the overall traffic situation in these critical areas.

Residents and business owners have expressed their support for the government’s action, noting the positive impact it will have on their daily activities.

LASTMA has also assured the public that the operation will be sustained and extended to other parts of the city where illegal garages and related activities are prevalent.

Giwa urged all vehicle owners and operators to adhere to the state’s traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid sanctions. He reiterated that the government’s primary objective is to create a better and more livable Lagos for everyone.

He also urged motorists to take ownership of the roads and to promptly inform LASTMA of any broken down or abandoned trailers or trucks via the Agency’s hotlines: 08100565860/ 08129928503.

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Motorists in Lagos, are in for a tough time as facts has emerged that the state’s Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has a target to generate N2.5 billion into government coffers from fines from traffic offences this year.

This is contained in the 2024 budget of the Lagos State Government, signed into law by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

In the budget, the Ministry of Transportation is to generate N52.48 billion this year, out of which LASTMA is to rake in N2,505,000,000.

The Lagos State budget was part of the Federal and state by state budget contained in Open Nigeria, a web page managed by BUDGIT Nigeria and supported by the British Council. It contains budget documents of all the federating states of Nigeria since 2009.

BUDGIT Nigeria has been a strong advocate for accountability in governance, ensuring that Nigerian budget count for governance and for the poor to have the dividends of democratic governance.

In the 2023 budget, LASTMA was given N2.35 billion as revenue target. The Authority raked in N703.486 million between January and September, 2023. The revenue generation in the last three months (October-December of the year was not captured in the budget.

Asides LASTMA, the Ministry of Transportation targets N11.28 billion revenue this year, while the Lagos State Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), is to generate N10.3 billion.

The Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA) has a budget of N17.059 billion revenue target. In 2023, though it targets N16.399 billion revenue, it could only generate N7.196 billion between January and September 2023.

Also, the Lagos State Parking Authority is to generate N4.1 billion this year. In the previous year, the agency posted N450.9 million between January and September 2023 out of the N1.75 billion it was given in the year.

The Lagos State Number Plate and Production Authority has a revenue generation target of N6.2 billion, which is more that the N5.23 billion revenue target the previous year.

Lagos State has a total of seven million vehicles, estimate, as at 2022, out of which mixed commercial (trucks/buses) are four million and three million private vehicles. Also found in Lagos are a surfeit of motorized motorcycles, and rickshaws (tricycles).

The Lagos State Government had always insisted that all agencies and departments established under the Ministry of Transportation were not revenue generating.

It however acknowledged that it would not hesitate to make revenue from fines from motorists who are not ready to comply with the regulations concerning transportation and traffic management in the state.

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As part of efforts to ensure smooth traffic flow across the state, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have sanctioned 52 commercial vehicles for operating illegal garages and parking indiscriminately around Obalende and Iyana-Oworonsoki areas of the State.

The operation was led by LASTMA’s Director of Operations, Mr. Peter Gbegemede, following the directives of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa.

Giwa confirmed that the drivers of these commercial vehicles, including private car owners, had been repeatedly warned by the government before the enforcement operations commenced. He emphasized that these operations will continue, reflecting the Authority’s zero tolerance for indiscriminate parking and any impediments to free traffic flow across Lagos.

The Special Adviser expressed his concern over the unsightly and disruptive activities of commercial bus operators, which cause significant traffic issues for innocent motorists.

“To ensure smooth and seamless traffic for Lagosians during this festive season and beyond, 52 commercial vehicles were sanctioned for obstructing the free flow of traffic at Obalende and Iyana-Oworonsoki,” stated Hon. Giwa.

“The enforcement operations will be ongoing, with zero tolerance for illegal garages and indiscriminate parking. We will also remove any impediments on our roads in Lagos.”

Hon. Giwa urged motorists to take ownership of the roads and to promptly inform LASTMA of any broken down or abandoned trailer/truck via the Agency hotlines: 08100565860, 08129928490, 08129928515, and 08129928593.

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Introduction

In a groundbreaking move set to revolutionize traffic management in Lagos, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has concluded all necessary arrangement for the imminent launch of a dedicated call centre.

This pioneering initiative is designed to enhance communication between the public and traffic authorities, streamline traffic operations, and significantly improve the overall driving experience in Nigeria’s bustling commercial capital.

A Bold Step Towards Modern Traffic Management

Lagos, one of the most densely populated cities in Africa, is infamous for its traffic congestion.

Daily gridlocks, frequent accidents and a myriad of road incidents contribute to the city’s traffic nightmares. In response to these challenges, LASTMA’s new call centre aims to provide a real-time, efficient solution to traffic management, reflecting the government’s commitment to leveraging technology for public service enhancement.

How the Call Centre Works

The LASTMA call centre will be a state-of-the-art facility, operational 24/7, staffed by trained professionals adept at handling a wide range of traffic-related issues.

Motorists can contact the call centre via a toll-free dedicated hotlines to report traffic incidents, request assistance, or seek information on road conditions including report on activities of LASTMA Officers.

Using advanced technology, the call centre will track incidents, dispatch traffic officers and coordinate with other emergency services when necessary. This integrated approach ensures that help is always just a phone call away, providing a lifeline for motorists caught in traffic distress.

Benefits to the Motoring Public

1. Immediate Reporting and Response.
   One of the most significant benefits of the call centre is the ability to report traffic incidents in real time. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender, a major accident, or an unexpected roadblock, motorists can quickly notify LASTMA. This immediate reporting will enable swift deployment of traffic officers to manage and clear the scene, reducing delays and preventing secondary accidents.
2. Enhanced Traffic Flow.
   The call centre will play a crucial role in maintaining smooth traffic flow. By monitoring traffic conditions and responding promptly to incidents, LASTMA can alleviate bottlenecks and keep traffic moving. This will be particularly beneficial during peak hours and in high-traffic areas, reducing the time commuters spend on the road and enhancing overall productivity.
3. Increased Road Safety
   Quick intervention is key to road safety. The call centre’s ability to promptly address and resolve traffic incidents will help prevent accidents and ensure that roads are safe for all users. Additionally, motorists can report reckless driving and other dangerous behaviors, enabling LASTMA to take immediate action and uphold traffic regulations.
4. Improved Public Engagement and Trust.
   The call centre represents a significant step in fostering better communication between LASTMA and the public. By providing a toll-free free direct lines of contact, LASTMA can demonstrate its commitment to transparency and accountability. This engagement will build public trust and encourage citizens to participate actively in traffic management efforts.
5. Timely Information and Assistance.
   Beyond incident reporting, the call centre will serve as an information hub for motorists. Drivers can call in to get real-time updates on road conditions, detours, and traffic advisories. This timely information will help motorists plan their routes more effectively, avoiding congestion and reducing travel time.

Importance of the Call Centre in Lagos Traffic Management

The launch of the LASTMA call centre is a strategic initiative with far-reaching implications for traffic management in Lagos. Traffic congestion is not just a daily inconvenience; it has significant economic impacts, including increased fuel consumption, lost productivity, and higher transportation costs. By addressing traffic issues more efficiently, the call centre will contribute to the economic vitality of Lagos.

Moreover, the call centre aligns with the broader vision of creating a smart city where technology enhances the quality of urban living. It embodies the principles of proactive governance, where data and connectivity are leveraged to solve complex urban challenges. For LASTMA, this initiative marks a significant move towards modernizing traffic management and aligning with global best practices.

What to Expect

As the call centre gears up for launch, motorists can expect a seamless, user-friendly experience. LASTMA has invested in training its staff to handle calls professionally and efficiently, ensuring that every interaction contributes to a positive outcome. The public can look forward to a more responsive traffic management system that is better equipped to handle the demands of Lagos’s dynamic road network.

Conclusion

The launch of the LASTMA call centre is a landmark development in Lagos’s journey towards efficient traffic management. By providing a reliable and effective platform for real-time communication, LASTMA is empowering the motoring public to play an active role in managing the city’s traffic. The anticipated benefits – from improved safety to enhanced traffic flow – underscore the importance of this initiative. As Lagos continues to grow and evolve, innovations like the LASTMA call centre will be essential in building a more livable and prosperous city.

With the launch just around the corner, LASTMA invites all motorists to embrace this new tool and become active participants in the drive towards better traffic management in Lagos.

• Taofeeq Adebayo is the Director Enlightenment and Public Affairs of the Agency.

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The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has emphasized the need for all traffic officers to be more friendly and professional in the discharge of their responsibilities to motorists.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, gave the charge while flagging off a three-day training course for LASTMA Cadet Officers (LASTMA’s elite corps), at the Foursquare International Conference Centre in Orisumibare, Idimu, Lagos, yesterday.

Giwa who harped on the need to uphold ethics and professionalism in their new assignment said as traffic officers, LASTMA plays a critical role in ensuring the delivery of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES + Agenda, the first of which is transportation and traffic management.

To succeed in this mandate, the governor’s aide highlighted integrity, honesty and the impartial application of the state’s Traffic Reforms Law, even as he urged them to embrace the reorientation of courteous and respectful treatment of all citizens, even in challenging situations, as essential principles to a successful career as traffic officers.

Welcoming the officers formerly into the public service, Giwa urged the officers to see themselves as occupying a critical juncture in keeping the economy of the state, and by extension that of the country and the African continent moving, as Lagos is the commercial capital of Nigeria, and the fifth biggest economy on the continent.

He said the LASTMA uniforms which would be formerly given to the officers at the end of the training is an added responsibility. He cautioned them to shun corruption and be disciplined in the course of discharging their responsibilities as traffic managers.

Addressing the officers, Mr. Olalekan Bakare Oki, the General Manager of LASTMA, underscored the objective of the training course to equip the officers with the latest traffic management techniques, strategies, and best practices to keep the traffic moving.

He emphasized the importance of providing exceptional service to the citizens of Lagos State and fostering relationships and networks for career advancement.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of other cadet officers, Jimoh Babatunde Idris, thanked the Lagos State Government for employing them and providing them the training and retraining opportunity while pledging to uphold LASTMA’s work ethics and culture in the discharge of their responsibilities to the public.

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• 54 Viju Milk trucks impounded by LASTMA for illegal parking

.• LASTMA operational vehicles damaged.

The Lagos State Government will be prosecuting five persons arrested for assaulting LASTMA personnel during an enforcement operation in the Oba Akran Avenue area of Ikeja, Lagos.

Mr. Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at LASTMA, confirmed that on April 23, 2024, LASTMA operatives conducted an operation to remove illegally parked Viju Milk trucks on Oba Akran Avenue in response to numerous complaints from the public about the trucks causing traffic congestion.

During the operation, four LASTMA officers sustained serious injuries from weapons wielded by Viju Milk truck drivers and local miscreants.

“While LASTMA operational vehicles were vandalized, 54 Viju Milk truck were evacuated by LASTMA during the enforcement operations”

The police, working alongside LASTMA, arrested five persons (Falomo Oluwafemi, Adeniyi Stephen, Olamide Adekunle, Chukwu Guaja Eze and Adeshina Sulaimon) seized various weapons including broken bottles, iron rods, charms, knives, and cutlasses.

The injured LASTMA officers were promptly taken to the hospital for medical attention.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation,Sola Giwa, stated that the arrested individuals would be prosecuted by the government as a deterrent to others.

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Sunrise News: Six people, including the driver were today, rescued with various degrees of injuries, from a lone accident involving a Volvo truck (unregistered) fully loaded with food items which overturned on its side, while moving from Motorway, inward Ojota area of Lagos.

Among those involved in the accident were the truck driver and five passengers, including three women.

The Director, Public Affairs and enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Mr. Taofiq Adebayo, confirmed that officials from LASTMA were able to successfully rescued the severely injured truck driver and the five passengers from the scene of the accident.

Immediate investigation indicated that the injured truck driver lost control while on top speed due to brake failure.

Zebra Bakare Sulaimon Akanbi, stationed at Zone 11, Ojota/Fadeyi, confirmed that rescue operation was conducted with security personnel back-up.

According to Zebra Akanbi: “rescued injured driver and 5 others were immediately handed over to personnel of the Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASAMBUS) on ground for medical attention”

Present at the scene were key members of the LASTMA rescue team, including Mr. Hakeem Adeosun, the Director of Traffic Incidents, Event Monitoring, Enforcement and Compliance.

The falling loaded truck was eventually evacuated from the scene by LASTMA personnel to enable unhindered free vehicular movements inward Ojota from motorways

The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare Oki, while sympathising with injured victims however emphasized the importance of vehicle safety and urged all motorists, especially heavy truck drivers, to prioritize safety checks before embarking on journeys within or outside the State.

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