The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority’s (LASTMA) recent announcement that its Traffic Management Solution (TMS) devices captured 20,000 vehicles for traffic violations in 2024 is a testament to the agency’s commitment to enhancing traffic law enforcement and management.
The TMS devices, which were introduced in July 2023, have been instrumental in capturing traffic infractions, including illegal parking, traffic obstruction, and unauthorised passenger pick-ups and drop-offs at non-designated bus stops. The fact that 20,000 vehicles were captured in 2024 alone is a clear indication that the TMS devices are effective in monitoring and managing traffic in the state.
What’s even more impressive is the reduction in physically apprehended vehicles in 2024 compared to 2023. According to the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department at LASTMA, Taofiq Adebayo, the authority physically apprehended 16,824 vehicles in 2024, which is a reduction of 6,103 vehicles compared to 2023. This reduction can be attributed to LASTMA’s enlightenment campaign, which has helped to educate motorists on the importance of obeying traffic laws.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to training staff of the agency is also commendable. As of December 2024, nearly all of LASTMA’s 4,335 staff members had received training in emotional intelligence, work ethics, and human rights. This training has contributed to improved traffic management and enforcement outcomes, and it’s a step in the right direction towards ensuring that LASTMA officers are equipped to handle their duties effectively.
It’s also worth noting that LASTMA has implemented measures to protect the public from being manipulated into paying fines to unauthorized individuals. The agency’s toll-free line plays a critical role in this effort, and it’s a testament to LASTMA’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
However, there’s still more work to be done. The fact that 26 LASTMA officers faced disciplinary actions in 2024 for misconduct is a clear indication that there’s still a need for improvement in terms of officer conduct. LASTMA must continue to take disciplinary actions against erring officers and ensure that its staff is held to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. Their disciplinary actions are equally great signs of improvement on how they manage perception.
While awaiting full implementation of the body-camera deployment as promised by the state government, LASTMA’s TMS devices have been instrumental in enhancing traffic law enforcement and management in Lagos State.
The agency’s commitment to training its staff, protecting the public, and ensuring accountability is commendable. However, improvement in officer conduct cannot be overemphasized. Therefore, the agency must continue to work towards ensuring that its staff is equipped to handle their duties more effectively in 2025.
