Lagos re-launches Safety Advocacy Programme for primary, secondary schools

The Lagos State Government has re-launched its School Traffic Safety Advocacy Programme aimed at promoting road safety awareness among primary and secondary school students across the State.

Speaking at the relaunch event held on Wednesday in Ikeja, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, emphasised the government’s dedication to creating a safer environment for children and future generations.

He noted the importance of equipping students with the knowledge and skills to use roads responsibly.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olawale Musa, Giwa highlighted that the programme addressed two critical challenges: a lack of traffic knowledge and poor road-use attitudes, which contribute to traffic congestion and safety risks in Lagos.

He called for active participation by stakeholders to foster safety consciousness and promote responsible road behaviour across the State.

The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, commended the reintroduction of the initiative, describing it as a vital step towards instilling road safety values in young people.

He noted that the programme would teach fundamental principles of road safety and urged students to act responsibly to safeguard others.

Addressing the theme of the programme, “Every Child Has a Right to Safe Roads,” the General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, referenced the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) of 1989, which mandated that children receive the protection and care essential for their well-being.

Bakare-Oki explained that the advocacy programme is designed to teach children how to identify safe situations, assess risks, and adopt safety practices while commuting.

He added that the initiative would instil a culture of discipline among children, with LASTMA committing its resources to ensure the programme’s long-term success.

The re-launch event featured students from various public and private schools across Lagos State, including Emmagrace College, Igando; Onilekere Junior High School, Agege; Mulero Junior College, Agege; El-Bethel Nursery and Primary School, Ifako-Ijaiye; Kole Best International School, Orile; Government Junior College, Ipaja; and Pacelli School for the Blind, Surulere.