LASTMA to reduce physical enforcement, strengthen technology-based traffic management in 2026

Stanley Ihedigbo

As Lagosians usher in 2026, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has outlined a comprehensive agenda aimed at improving travel time, promoting ICT standards, and ensuring seamless mobility across the state.

Speaking on the agency’s priorities for the year, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, explained that the focus for 2026 is to build on the gains recorded in the previous year by reducing traffic congestion, protecting road assets, and enhancing the overall commuting experience for residents.

According to him, improving travel time remains a top priority, especially in a state like Lagos, where over 65 per cent of Nigeria’s cargo activities take place.

He noted that despite the availability of waterways and other modes of transportation, more than 90 per cent of cargo movement is still carried out through road networks, placing enormous pressure on existing infrastructure.

Reflecting on the challenges encountered in 2025, the LASTMA boss identified the behavioural patterns of road users as a major concern.

Many motorists, he noted, refused to adhere to traffic rules, engaged in excessive speeding, and failed to prioritise safety.

He explained that the activities of heavy-duty trucks and tankers conveying containers, petroleum products, and other cargo across the state also posed significant challenges.

“These pressures are compounded by Lagos’ status as Nigeria’s commercial hub, with intense early-morning business activities that continue to stretch the state’s road infrastructure,” he said.

Nevertheless, the LASTMA General Manager maintained that the agency remains committed to ensuring free flow of traffic and seamless mobility, with the ultimate goal of reducing travel time across major corridors.

With increased political activities expected this year, the agency head disclosed that proactive measures have been put in place to manage traffic around known hotspots and high-volume locations.

Bakare-Oki further explained that strategic areas commonly used for political rallies, campaigns, and public gatherings have been identified.

“Personnel are deployed ahead of such events to manage traffic, prevent gridlock, and respond swiftly to emergencies, including market-related congestion and crowd surges,” he assured.

On the appointment of Traffic Mayors to support traffic control, he stated that only individuals of proven integrity and high discipline are engaged.

“Their mandate includes assisting in traffic management during peak hours, supporting enforcement efforts, and ensuring that professionalism is maintained at all times,” he said.

The General Manager noted that outstanding Traffic Mayors were recently recognised at a national traffic conference held in 2025, a gesture aimed at encouraging dedication and exemplary service.

Addressing complaints against erring officers, the LASTMA boss emphasised that the agency has internal monitoring mechanisms in place to ensure compliance with its vision.

“Supervisors and special teams regularly move around the state, sometimes acting as ‘mystery shoppers,’ to observe officers on duty and correct misconduct where necessary. Sanctions are applied when infractions are confirmed.

“In cases of emergencies or injuries sustained on duty, affected officers are immediately deployed to designated government hospitals, with medical expenses promptly handled through an established system involving emergency centres and general hospitals,” he added.

Bakare-Oki reiterated that the agency currently boasts over 4,500 personnel strategically deployed across major traffic hotspots in the state.

This manpower strength, he said, gives LASTMA an edge over other emergency responders in traffic incident management.

He stressed that the agency remains the first responder to most traffic incidents, working closely with other agencies to ensure quick resolution and minimal disruption.

According to him, one of the most significant developments is LASTMA’s gradual shift from physical enforcement to technology-based traffic management.

“In 2025 alone, over 17,000 traffic infractions were captured through technological enforcement tools,” he said.

He noted that this approach has drastically reduced physical confrontations, litigation, and prolonged court cases that often arose from manual enforcement.

“LASTMA has also deployed surveillance drones for over seven months to capture real-time traffic infractions, road breakdowns, and congestion points.
Some of the drones cover distances of up to 10–12 kilometres without interruption.

“Additionally, a toll-free line was introduced to prioritise public feedback. The line, accessible in both English and Yoruba, has improved response time and service delivery, with most complaints promptly addressed.”

In his New Year message to Lagosians, the LASTMA boss emphasised that traffic management is a shared responsibility.

Road users were urged to respect traffic rules, uphold safety standards, and recognise that human life has no duplicate.

Bakare-Oki assured residents that with sustained state government support, improved welfare for personnel, and increased deployment of technology, traffic management in Lagos will continue to improve in 2026 and beyond.