The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has introduced the use of drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), to improve traffic control and security monitoring across Lagos.
In a statement issued on Thursday by Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, and shared on LASTMA’s official X handle, the agency announced that it has begun transitioning from traditional traffic control methods to advanced digital intelligence. Central to this shift is the deployment of drones to improve traffic flow, boost security surveillance, and strengthen public safety across Lagos.
The statement further noted that the initiative aligns with the Lagos State Government’s broader vision under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who has consistently emphasized the importance of adopting innovative technologies to drive sustainable urban mobility and improve the overall efficiency of the city’s transport system.
The statement reads, “In a decisive leap towards technological advancement, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has officially commenced its transition from traditional analog methodologies to an era of advanced digital intelligence, signaled by the deployment of state-of-the-art Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), widely known as drones, to enhance traffic management, strengthen security surveillance, and reinforce public safety across the Lagos metropolis.
“This trailblazing initiative, harmonised with the visionary mandate of the Lagos State Government under the distinguished leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, accentuates the administration’s steadfast dedication to leveraging innovation in the pursuit of sustainable urban mobility, heightened safety, and operational excellence.”
According to the statement, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, affirmed that the deployment of drones signifies a watershed moment in Lagos’ traffic management ecosystem, seamlessly elevating the Authority from conventional reactive enforcement to predictive, intelligence-driven operations.
He stated, “This transition transcends the mere acquisition of equipment; it embodies a strategic reformation that positions LASTMA at the forefront of digital governance in traffic management. These drones will provide real-time aerial oversight, enabling swifter interventions, improved safety outcomes, argument emergency response coordination, bolster security frameworks and the cultivation of a more disciplined motoring culture.”
The statement also stated that Bakare-Oki further reassured the public that the deployment shall be conducted under stringent adherence to privacy safeguards, ethical standards, and regulatory compliance, thereby reinforcing public trust in the system’s transparency and integrity.
The Authority restated its strong commitment to improving traffic management through constant innovation, with the goal of reducing travel delays, cutting down on road accidents, and safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State.
Bakare-Oki described the development as further proof of the THEMES+ Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, highlighting that technology and innovation remain central to building a safer, smarter, and more livable city.
He added that the new drone technology would work hand in hand with LASTMA’s existing operations, particularly in responding quickly to emergencies, accidents, and other traffic-related challenges. The agency also reminded the public of its toll-free hotline, 080000527862, available for reporting incidents and emergencies across Lagos.
