As the Ember months draw near, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) is amplifying its efforts to ensure seamless vehicular movement and safeguard public safety throughout the upcoming Christmas and New Year festivities in Lagos.
During a strategic session convened at LASTMA Headquarters today and chaired by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, LASTMA officers were exhorted to adopt a forward-thinking approach in anticipation of the surge in vehicular traffic and illegal roadside trading. Both of these challenges have the potential to impede the unobstructed flow of traffic and human movement across the State.
Hon. Giwa underscored the critical need for an integrated and robust response from LASTMA personnel, acknowledging that the Ember months are traditionally characterized by heightened road activity and increased congestion. He urged officers to remain vigilant and to take assertive measures against any actions that could compromise the safe and efficient transit of both vehicles and pedestrians before, during and after the festive season.
“Our foremost priority is ensuring the safety and convenience of all road users in Lagos. LASTMA officers must remain ever watchful, and decisive in addressing illegal roadside trading and other activities that threaten to disrupt traffic flow,” Hon. Giwa remarked.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, elaborated on some of key locations to be closely monitored, which include Oyingbo, Iddo, Idumota, Apongbon, Mile 12, Kara, Mile 2, Alaba-Rago, Lekki-Ajah Expressway, among others. He further urged motorists to utilize the Agency’s toll-free hotline (080000527862) for swift assistance in the event of any traffic-related inconveniences.
In attendance at the high-level meeting were Directors, Comptrollers, Commanders, Zonal Heads, all of whom reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to maintaining traffic order during this peak period.
LASTMA has pledged to augment its deployment of officers and escalate patrols across key areas of the metropolis to effectively manage the anticipated influx of road users. The agency appeals to all Lagosians, particularly motorists, to adhere strictly to traffic regulations and collaborate with LASTMA personnel to ensure a secure and enjoyable festive period.
Adebayo Taofiq
Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA.