Lagos boosts LASTMA operations with 24-hour traffic management support center

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has launched the Integrated Customer Support Centre of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) in an effort to revolutionize traffic management in the state.

The centre aims to provide real-time, efficient solutions to traffic issues with dedicated 24-hour support lines.

The initiative, based on a research-driven concept with the motto “See something, Say something,” aims to enhance traffic flow by enabling the public to report incidents promptly via apps or toll-free numbers, ensuring swift attention from LASTMA agents.

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Speaking at the project’s launch on Tuesday, Hon. Sola Giwa, Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, outlined the initiative’s components: a toll-free call centre, walk-in complaint centre, website, whistleblower app, and a new Department of Statistics, Research, and Data.

These elements are intended to improve communication between the public and traffic management authorities, streamline operations, and enhance driving experiences in Lagos, a bustling commercial capital.

“Lagos, being densely populated, faces daily traffic jams and accidents that contribute to our city’s challenges,” Giwa acknowledged. “In response, these customer support centres aim to leverage technology for effective traffic management, reflecting our government’s commitment to public service enhancement.”

Giwa highlighted that the state-of-the-art call centre operates round-the-clock, manned by trained professionals capable of handling various traffic-related issues. “The public and motorists can contact the centre via toll-free hotlines to report incidents, seek assistance, or obtain information on road conditions, including reports on LASTMA activities,” he explained.

Using advanced technology, the call centre tracks incidents, dispatches officers, and coordinates with emergency services when needed. This integrated approach ensures immediate assistance, providing crucial support to motorists in distress.

Giwa added, “The call centre accepts accident reports and alerts on roadblocks, allowing LASTMA to deploy officers swiftly to manage and clear scenes, thereby minimizing delays and preventing secondary accidents.”

He emphasized that the centre also serves as an information hub for motorists, providing real-time updates and traffic advisories to help plan routes effectively and avoid congestion.

“The walk-in complaint centre strengthens communication between LASTMA and the public, fostering transparency and accountability,” Giwa continued. “Additionally, the whistleblower app enables users to report reckless driving, ensuring LASTMA can promptly uphold traffic regulations.”

On a broader scale, Giwa noted that the initiative aligns with Lagos State’s vision of a smart city, utilizing technology and data to address urban challenges and modernize traffic management in line with global standards.

Commissioning the centre, Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, expressed confidence in its impact: “This resourceful idea expands our reach and accessibility.

It encourages accountability and proactive management of issues as they arise.”

Addressing concerns about handling high volumes of complaints, Osiyemi assured, “The centre is equipped with ten toll-free lines and robust backend support to manage requests effectively. Users can also utilize the website, ensuring comprehensive coverage.”