LASTMA unveils traffic mayor initiative

The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, announced the initiative in a statement released to the media on Sunday in Lagos.

According to him, the programme is designed to support and complement the ongoing efforts of LASTMA officers in managing traffic, ensuring road safety, and improving mobility in Nigeria’s busiest city.

“This innovative initiative combines media advocacy with on-the-ground enforcement, leveraging the influence of the press to encourage greater public compliance with traffic laws,” Bakare-Oki explained.

He noted that the partnership with media professionals would help raise public awareness, reshape road user behavior, and promote civic responsibility on Lagos roads.

Highlighting the vital role of the media, Bakare-Oki described journalists as “architects of public consciousness” and “catalysts for societal change.” He added that the Media Traffic Mayor initiative marks a major step forward in creating a sustainable system for traffic governance in the state.

Under the new programme, selected media professionals will go beyond reporting news—they will serve as ambassadors of road discipline and public order. They will work closely with LASTMA officers to educate motorists, share traffic updates, counter misinformation, and model responsible behavior on the roads.

Also speaking on the initiative, the Director of Traffic Advocacy and Special Mayor, Mr. Awoyemi Jimmy, said managing traffic in a megacity like Lagos requires more than enforcement. It demands strong partnerships with key stakeholders, including media professionals and civic advocates.

Jimmy reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment—under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu—to adopting multi-pronged strategies that improve urban mobility, enhance productivity, and protect the dignity of all residents navigating the city.