In a major move to improve traffic management and road safety, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has launched the use of drone technology to monitor traffic and respond swiftly to emergencies across the state.
The announcement was made during the official launch of the initiative by LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who said the deployment of drones marks a new era in traffic enforcement and public safety in Lagos.
According to Bakare-Oki, the drones will provide real-time aerial coverage of major roads, helping officers detect and respond more quickly to traffic congestion, road accidents, and other emergencies.
“This initiative is not just about deploying new equipment but about redefining our approach to traffic management through digital governance,” he said.
“With real-time aerial oversight, we can intervene faster, enhance safety, improve emergency coordination, strengthen security measures, and encourage a more disciplined motoring culture.”
The LASTMA boss explained that the drones will be used for aerial surveillance and high-definition monitoring, allowing officials to act proactively instead of relying only on ground patrols. This, he said, will also help in gathering useful data for future traffic planning.
He highlighted that the new system will operate within strict legal and ethical guidelines, particularly concerning privacy and data protection.
“We want to assure Lagosians that the use of drones will strictly comply with privacy safeguards and legal standards, guaranteeing transparency and integrity in the system,” Bakare-Oki added.
The introduction of drones is expected to complement LASTMA’s existing operations, including its toll-free emergency hotline, which is used to report accidents, traffic breakdowns, and other road-related issues.
Officials say the technology will help reduce the response time to traffic incidents, improve road safety, and support more efficient use of manpower.
This latest innovation is part of the Lagos State Government’s broader push for digital transformation in public service. In recent years, the government has made efforts to integrate technology into areas like transport, waste management, education, and healthcare.
With Lagos being one of the most densely populated cities in Africa — and home to over 20 million people — traffic remains one of the biggest daily challenges for residents and commuters. Long hours in gridlock, frequent accidents, and poor driving habits have continued to affect productivity and safety.
LASTMA says it is determined to change this narrative through smart solutions.
“The ultimate goal is to make our roads safer, traffic smoother, and transportation more efficient for all Lagosians,” Bakare-Oki concluded.
As drone monitoring begins across key traffic corridors, authorities are urging motorists to cooperate with traffic officials and obey all road safety rules.
