The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has received significant public commendation for its effective traffic management during the recent “Detty December” festivities. This praise is largely attributed to proactive planning, improved operational strategies, and enhanced traffic discipline implemented across the state. The agency’s success during this peak period, marked by an unprecedented influx of visitors into Lagos, has drawn widespread attention and positive feedback from residents and public figures alike.
One of the most notable endorsements came from popular Nigerian singer, Timi Dakolo, whose public praise of LASTMA sparked conversations on social media and placed the agency at the centre of national discourse. This recognition underscores the impact of their efforts in managing the complex traffic situations that arise during the festive season.
Speaking on the development, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Oki-Bakare Olalekan, stated that the commendation was encouraging and reflected the outcome of deliberate planning rather than mere coincidence. The festive season provided a crucial opportunity to thoroughly evaluate and dissect the traffic management framework that had been meticulously prepared and put in place following clear directives from the Lagos State Governor.
According to Olalekan, the influx of people into Lagos during the Christmas and New Year period was unprecedented in the history of the state’s festive celebrations. This allowed LASTMA to properly evaluate and dissect the traffic management framework they had prepared.
He explained that unlike previous years, LASTMA adopted a proactive approach. This involved rolling out a comprehensive traffic management plan covering October, November, and December, focusing on preventing congestion rather than reacting to it as it occurred. This forward-thinking strategy was key to their success.
As part of this strategy, the agency meticulously identified major traffic flashpoints across the state. Particular attention was given to areas with a high concentration of hospitality and entertainment activities, including nightclubs, event centres, bars, restaurants, and hotels. Personnel and logistics were strategically deployed to these locations well in advance of the festive rush.
A key innovation introduced during the period was the introduction of the Night Gang Shift. This new shift complemented the existing A.M. and P.M. operational structure, ensuring uninterrupted, round-the-clock traffic management, especially in nightlife corridors that experience peak vehicular movement late into the night.
LASTMA’s A.M. shift typically runs from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., while the P.M. shift takes over from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The Night Gang Shift then resumes from 6:30 p.m., ensuring seamless overlap and a full 24-hour operation.
This operational enhancement significantly strengthened LASTMA’s traffic control capacity and directly accounted for the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from road users during the period. The commitment to continuous service was evident.
For the December operations, over 1,800 officers were deployed to reinforce traffic management in high-activity areas such as Lekki, Ajah, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Surulere. This extensive deployment was supported by recovery and tow vehicles to ensure the prompt removal of broken-down vehicles, accident scenes, and other obstructions on major roads.
Despite the successes recorded, Olalekan acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly concerning motorists’ behaviour. He identified lane indiscipline, reckless driving, speeding, and a general disregard for traffic regulations as major contributors to traffic disruptions and road crashes.
He cited a late-night accident involving a container-laden truck at Apongbon Bridge as a prime example, noting that it took officers nearly two hours to clear the scene and restore traffic flow. Addressing these behavioural issues remains a priority.
As part of their EMBER Months campaign, LASTMA engaged transport unions, fleet operators, and other stakeholders through sensitisation programmes. These initiatives focused on promoting safe driving practices, vehicle maintenance, and strict adherence to traffic rules.
The LASTMA boss further highlighted the peculiar pressure on Lagos road infrastructure. He noted that although the state occupies less than one per cent of Nigeria’s landmass, it accommodates over five million registered vehicles and accounts for a significant share of national cargo movement.
Since his appointment in November 2023, the agency has prioritized rebranding, continuous training, discipline, and technology-driven enforcement to improve service delivery and reduce human contact. This holistic approach aims to build trust and efficiency.
Olalekan reaffirmed LASTMA’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the free movement of people, goods, and services across Lagos. He stressed that the public commendation received during Detty December serves as powerful motivation to sustain and build upon the significant gains that have been recorded.
The public commendation reflects the positive impact of LASTMA’s proactive traffic planning during Detty December, showcasing the effectiveness of their enhanced operational strategies and the dedication of their personnel in keeping Lagos moving.
Singer Timi Dakolo has clapped back after a social media user mocked him for praising LASTMA officers for working round the clock during the festive season. Dakolo questioned if the critic understands what it means to work tirelessly, adding that people doing demanding jobs pic.twitter.com/rsURz0vrXm
— the_gistarena (@the_gistarena) December 30, 2025
