The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has announced the deployment of drones and other advanced technologies to enhance traffic monitoring and reduce human contact in managing vehicular movement across the state.
Speaking on the new initiative, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Jibril Gawat Oshodi, said the agency is embracing technology-driven solutions to improve traffic efficiency, ensure real-time surveillance, and minimize altercations between officers and motorists.
According to Oshodi, the use of drones will enable the agency to monitor traffic flow remotely, detect congestion points early, and respond swiftly to incidents such as accidents, road obstructions, or violations.
“We are moving towards a smarter and more efficient traffic management system. With drones and other digital tools, our officers can now receive instant traffic updates and coordinate responses without necessarily being on-site,” he said.
He added that the deployment is part of the Lagos State Government’s broader Smart City initiative aimed at improving urban mobility, safety, and environmental sustainability.
Oshodi also noted that LASTMA is collaborating with technology partners to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics into its control systems for better traffic forecasting and decision-making.
“The idea is to reduce human involvement in areas where technology can perform more efficiently. This will also help reduce friction between our officers and motorists, while promoting transparency and accountability,” he explained.
The General Manager urged motorists to cooperate with the agency by adhering to traffic regulations and making use of alternative routes when advised, especially as Lagos continues to experience heavy vehicular movement due to ongoing road and infrastructure projects
