The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority says its investment in staff training is improving traffic control, public relations, and operational efficiency across Lagos.

The initiative, led by General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki, focuses on retraining officers to handle the growing complexities of managing traffic in one of Africa’s busiest cities.

Officials say the reforms are aimed at strengthening professionalism, reducing conflict with motorists, and improving response times during road incidents.

Why it matters

Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, faces persistent traffic congestion driven by rapid urban growth, poor road infrastructure, and high vehicle density.

Efficient traffic management plays a key role in economic productivity, emergency response, and daily commuting.

Authorities believe better-trained personnel can help reduce delays, improve road safety, and support smoother movement of goods and services.

What has changed

According to LASTMA, the training programme goes beyond traditional traffic control drills.

It includes modules on:

Emotional intelligence

Conflict resolution

Crisis management

Public communication

Use of modern traffic technologies

Officials say this shift is redefining officers as public-facing representatives rather than just law enforcers.

Improved public interaction

One of the most visible outcomes, the agency says, is improved interaction between officers and road users.

“Officers are now better equipped to de-escalate tensions and communicate clearly with motorists,” the agency noted.

Authorities say this has led to fewer confrontations and more cooperation on the roads.

Operational efficiency gains

LASTMA also reports faster response times to road incidents and improved traffic coordination.

Regular retraining exposes officers to data-driven deployment strategies and real-time traffic management techniques.

This, officials say, has helped reduce secondary accidents and clear road blockages more quickly.

Focus on ethics and accountability

The agency says integrity and transparency are central to the new training framework.

Officers are trained to follow due process and maintain professional conduct, which officials claim has contributed to a decline in reported misconduct.

Public trust, they add, is essential for effective traffic enforcement.

Broader economic impact

Traffic congestion in Lagos affects businesses, workers, and supply chains.

Experts say improvements in traffic flow can:

Increase productivity

Reduce commuter stress

Enhance logistics and trade efficiency

A more responsive traffic system also supports emergency services and urban planning efforts.

Industry and stakeholder collaboration

LASTMA says it is working with emergency responders and training institutions to strengthen its programmes.

These partnerships aim to build a coordinated approach to traffic and incident management across the city.

What’s next

With Lagos adopting more digital traffic systems, officials say continuous training will remain a priority.

The agency plans to further equip officers with skills needed to adapt to evolving urban mobility challenges.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has deployed additional personnel and equipment across Lagos ahead of the Easter holidays, warning motorists against drunk driving and reckless behaviour.

The agency also confirmed it has launched an investigation into allegations that some of its officers extorted ₦100,000 from commercial drivers along the Coastal Road.

Easter travel: Increased traffic expected

Lagos typically sees a surge in movement during Easter, with commuters travelling for religious activities, leisure and family visits.

LASTMA’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the agency is taking proactive steps to manage traffic and prevent accidents.

He urged motorists to exercise caution and comply with traffic laws.

“We appeal to all motorists to demonstrate exemplary conduct, exercise patience and obey all directives issued by Officers on duty,” he said.

“Safety is a collective obligation and every driver must understand that a single moment of impaired judgment whether through drunk driving or reckless speed may result in irreversible loss.”

Expanded deployment across Lagos

The agency said it has stationed officers across major highways, intersections, transport hubs, religious centres and recreational areas.

Tow trucks, traffic cones and safety barriers have also been deployed to respond quickly to breakdowns and road incidents.

“We have likewise deployed both high and medium capacity tow trucks… to restore order with minimal delay,” Mr Bakare-Oki added.

The move, according to the agency, is aimed at ensuring smooth movement of people, goods and services during the festive period.

Why it matters

Road accidents often increase during festive seasons due to speeding, alcohol consumption and traffic congestion.

Authorities say improved enforcement and public cooperation can reduce crashes and save lives.

Commercial drivers, fleet operators and transport unions have also been urged to educate their members on safe driving practices, including avoiding overloading and substance use.

Investigation into ₦100,000 extortion allegation

Separately, LASTMA said it is investigating claims circulating on social media that its officers demanded ₦100,000 from drivers before releasing impounded vehicles.

The agency described the allegation as serious and said it does not tolerate misconduct.

“LASTMA remains a disciplined, professional and ethically guided government institution that does not, under any circumstances, condone misconduct, abuse of office or extortion,” the statement said.

The agency has invited the accuser, identified as Tosin, to provide evidence at its headquarters in Oshodi.

It also pledged that any officer found guilty would face disciplinary action.

Public trust and accountability

LASTMA said the investigation reflects its commitment to transparency and accountability.

Residents have been encouraged to report traffic violations and misconduct through official channels.

For many Lagos commuters, the outcome of the investigation could influence public trust in traffic enforcement agencies.

What’s next

The agency says it will continue monitoring traffic conditions throughout Easter and respond to incidents in real time.

Findings from the extortion investigation are expected after a full review of evidence.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has assured residents of smooth traffic flow across Lagos during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, while warning that violators of road rules will face strict penalties.

The agency’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said officials would enforce a “zero tolerance” policy against traffic offences before, during and after the festivities.

‘Zero tolerance’ for violations

In a statement issued to mark the end of Ramadan, Mr Bakare-Oki urged Muslim faithful to maintain the discipline and patience observed during the fasting period.

He said these values should extend to behaviour on the roads.

“While we celebrate this important occasion, all road users must exercise caution and strictly adhere to traffic rules. LASTMA will not tolerate any action that puts lives at risk or hinders the free flow of traffic.”

Motorists were warned against reckless driving, illegal parking, route violations, unauthorised off-loading, and driving against traffic.

Why it matters

Eid-el-Fitr is one of the busiest travel periods in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, often marked by increased road congestion due to religious gatherings and social visits.

Traffic management during such periods is critical to reducing accidents, easing movement, and maintaining public safety.

Transport analysts say effective coordination can also reduce economic losses linked to gridlock in the city.

Traffic plan and deployment

LASTMA said it has developed a comprehensive traffic management strategy to handle the expected surge in vehicular movement.

Officials have been deployed to highways, major junctions, and high-activity areas across Lagos.

Mr Bakare-Oki said the agency would run round-the-clock monitoring and collaborate with security and emergency services to respond quickly to incidents.

Call for public cooperation

The agency urged residents to cooperate with traffic officials and comply with road safety regulations.

“As we celebrate with our Muslim brothers and sisters, we urge all residents to prioritise safety, respect authority and contribute to a peaceful and congestion-free environment,” Mr Bakare-Oki added.

What’s next

Authorities say enforcement will continue throughout the festive period, with a focus on preventing congestion and ensuring safety on major roads.

Residents are advised to plan journeys early and avoid peak travel times where possible.