LASTMA Enlightens Market Leaders, Transporters on Traffic Regulations, Flags Off 2023 Ember Month Road Safety Advocacy Campaign

As part of the preparation for the increased commercial activity and traffic flow on major roads across the State, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has launched the ‘Lastma Female Elite Corp’ to kick off the Year 2023 Ember Months’ Public Enlightenment and Safety Advocacy Campaign.

The Ag. General Manager of the Agency, Mr. Bakare Oki Olalekan, spoke during the flag-off ceremony and stated that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu places a high priority on the safety of people and property. He also mentioned that the annual advocacy campaign for the ember months is aimed at educating drivers about the importance of being cautious and respectful of other road users.

Olalekan reiterated that although traffic law enforcement officers are friends of the public, they will not tolerate the inappropriate behaviour and attitude of some recalcitrant drivers. He admonished both private and commercial bus drivers to adopt a different attitude while on the roads.

Therefore, the head of LASTMA urged everyone who drives, especially commercial bus drivers, to drive defensively and to abide by all traffic laws. “Drivers need to look after themselves and give up bad habits like drinking and driving, smoking, and using their phones while driving. They also need to learn to be considerate of other drivers,” he stated.

During the ceremony, Mrs. Biola Aina, an Assistant Chief Traffic Superintendent and Coordinator of ‘Lastma Female Elite Corp,’ also spoke and cautioned the travelling public not to let the surge in commercial activity and heavy traffic during this holiday season take precedence over road safety.

She emphasised that not knowing the law is not an excuse and that the public should expect a new Lastma that treats drivers with compassion, civility, and empathy. She also emphasised that the advocacy programme will cover all five divisions of Lagos State.

She stated that the “Lastma Female Elite Corp” was founded in order to present the Agency’s new image to the public, and she mentioned a number of the markets and motor parks that the advocacy team had already visited, including Obalende, C.M.S., Lekki, Iyana-Oworo, and Apongbon.