FIC Report (Lagos State) – For anyone visiting Lagos, the city’s notorious traffic is often an unavoidable topic of discussion. It reflects the energy and fast-paced nature of the state, widely recognized as West Africa’s commercial hub.
Determined to ease gridlock and improve mobility, the Lagos State Government on February 11, 2025, relaunched the Special Traffic Mayor (STM) initiative under the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA). The move is aimed at enhancing traffic regulation and emergency response, ultimately boosting productivity and the economy.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by key officials, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa; the Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro; and a delegation of Permanent Secretaries.
Speaking at the event, Giwa emphasized the importance of public involvement in traffic management. “This initiative empowers citizens and stakeholders to actively contribute to road safety and orderliness. The Special Traffic Mayors will play a critical role in improving transportation and fostering collaboration,” he stated.
To reinforce the program, the Ministry of Transportation and LASTMA have inducted senior civil servants as Special Traffic Mayors. Among those enlisted are the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; Permanent Secretary/Surveyor-General, Ayokunnu Adesina; and Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Mobolaji Daba, among others.
The latest inductee, Engr. Lateef Somide, Permanent Secretary in the Office of Infrastructure, described the initiative as a significant step toward improving traffic flow in Lagos. He commended LASTMA for its evolving public perception, attributing it to recent reforms under the agency’s new leadership.
“Public feedback has been positive since Olalekan Bakare-Oki took charge. We must all work together because traffic management requires collective effort. Achieving the ‘T’ in Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s development agenda demands synergy,” Somide noted.
LASTMA’s Director of Traffic Advocacy and Special Traffic Mayor, Mr. Jimi Awoyemi, who presided over the induction, encouraged the new Traffic Mayors to actively support smooth traffic operations. He highlighted that each Mayor has been provided with uniforms and materials to facilitate direct communication with senior LASTMA officers during congestion.
Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Seun Osiyemi stressed that enlisting all Permanent Secretaries as Special Traffic Mayors was a strategic decision aimed at ensuring government leaders participate actively in traffic management.
With this revitalized initiative, the Lagos State Government is reinforcing its commitment to addressing traffic challenges through collaboration between public officials and road users.
Signed
Gloria Dawodu
ACIO
