The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has deployed drones across strategic locations in the state to enhance traffic control, strengthen security surveillance and improve emergency response.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, noting that the move represents a major shift from traditional analogue methods to digital intelligence in traffic management.
Bakare-Oki explained that the introduction of drones, otherwise known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), aligns with the state government’s commitment to using technology for safer roads and smarter mobility.
“This accentuates the administration’s steadfast dedication to leveraging innovation in pursuit of sustainable urban mobility, heightened safety and operational excellence.”
“Through aerial reconnaissance and high-definition monitoring capabilities, the UAVs will empower LASTMA to be proactive in traffic management and control across the state,” he said.
According to him, the drones will provide real-time aerial oversight, enabling quicker interventions during gridlocks, reducing travel times, bolstering security, and fostering a disciplined motoring culture.
He assured residents that the new system would be operated in strict compliance with privacy safeguards and regulatory standards.
“We want Lagosians to trust this process, knowing it is built on transparency, ethical standards and integrity,” he added.
The LASTMA boss maintained that the innovation would complement the agency’s existing services, including emergency response and the LASTMA toll-free hotline 080000527862.
Bakare-Oki described the deployment as a “watershed moment” in Lagos traffic management, stressing that it would reposition the agency from conventional reactive enforcement to predictive, intelligence-driven operations.
He also said the initiative is in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ agenda, which prioritises technology and innovation in achieving a safer and more habitable Lagos.
