The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) is the state agency responsible for managing vehicular movement and enforcing traffic laws across the Lagos metropolis. LASTMA is responsible for controlling traffic, so having their number handy means you can call them to report accidents, illegal parking, stalled vehicles, and anything else blocking up the roads. With their number in your phone, you’ve got a direct line to help get traffic moving again. This article will give you all the details on reaching LASTMA, so you’re prepared next time you’re stuck in Lagos gridlock.
Overview of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA)
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) is a government agency responsible for managing traffic flow and enforcing traffic laws in Lagos, Nigeria. It was established in 2000 to help reduce the severe traffic congestion plaguing the state.
LASTMA officers are tasked with directing traffic, clearing obstructions, and apprehending drivers who violate traffic rules. They aim to maintain smooth vehicular movement and ensure road safety across Lagos’ busy streets and highways.
While intended to ease gridlock, LASTMA has faced criticism over alleged harassment of motorists and extortion attempts by some officers. While some see LASTMA as a nuisance, the truth is that an empowered road management authority is crucial for a mega-city like Lagos. With over 20 million residents and countless vehicles, maintaining order on our roads is no easy feat.
History of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA)
In the late 1990s, Lagos was grappling with severe traffic congestion. The rapidly growing population and inadequate road infrastructure led to daily gridlocks, hampering mobility and economic productivity.
To address this crisis, the Lagos State Government established the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) on the 15th of July, 2000. This state-backed agency was tasked with enforcing traffic laws, managing vehicular flow, and reducing road congestion.
Over the years, LASTMA’s operations have expanded significantly. The agency now boasts a sizable workforce of traffic officers and an extensive fleet of operational vehicles. They have also embraced modern technology, utilizing CCTV cameras and intelligent traffic management systems.
Who is a LASTMA officer?
A LASTMA (Lagos State Traffic Management Authority) officer is the face of traffic control in Lagos. These officials are responsible for maintaining order on the chaotic roads. LASTMA officers have the authority to stop vehicles and issue tickets for traffic violations. Their bright yellow uniforms make them hard to miss as they direct traffic flow at intersections.
But LASTMA officers do more than just hand out fines. They assist with accident scenes, clear obstructions from roads, and educate drivers on safe practices. Their role is crucial for keeping Lagos moving safely.
You’ll see LASTMA patrolling the streets day and night. Rain or shine, these dedicated officers are out there ensuring traffic laws are followed for everyone’s benefit. Respecting their efforts makes getting around easier for all.
LASTMA Mission
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has a clear mission. To promote a state-wide culture of Traffic Regulation, Control, and Management, as well as to ensure smooth Traffic flow on Lagos roads. To effectively manage and control vehicular movement and pedestrian traffic across the state. Their core focus is ensuring the free flow of traffic on all roads and highways.
LASTMA officers are constantly monitoring traffic patterns. Identifying potential gridlocks before they occur. Their proactive approach involves strategically deploying personnel. Implementing traffic diversions to ease congestion during peak periods.
Beyond traffic control, LASTMA prioritizes public awareness campaigns. Educating motorists and pedestrians on traffic rules and regulations. Their aim is to foster a culture of road discipline. Reducing violations that contribute to gridlocks.
With a commitment to modern techniques and public engagement, LASTMA strives for an efficient transport system. Enabling smooth mobility for Lagos residents and visitors alike.
LASTMA Vision
LASTMA’s core vision is to reduce deaths and economic losses caused by road traffic accidents and reduce delays on Lagos State’s public highways by implementing modern traffic management techniques to bring order and control to the state’s roads. They work tirelessly to decongest gridlocks, manage traffic signals, and enforce traffic laws. Their ultimate goal? Reducing accidents and travel times for all road users.
Beyond enforcement, LASTMA is committed to raising public awareness of road safety and traffic rules. Through campaigns and outreach programs, they aim to foster a culture of responsible road usage. It’s all about empowering citizens to be part of the solution.
Duties and Responsibilities of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA)
These are the main duties and responsibilities of LASTMA:
Maintain Traffic Flow
LASTMA officers are tasked with ensuring smooth vehicular movement across Lagos roads. They direct traffic at intersections, clear obstructions, and manage congestion during peak hours.
Enforce Traffic Laws
A key duty is enforcing traffic regulations like issuing citations for illegal parking, driving on restricted routes, and other violations. Their presence promotes road discipline.
Accident Management
When accidents occur, LASTMA teams secure the scene, coordinate with emergency services, and manage traffic diversions to minimize disruptions.
Special Event Deployment
During major events like concerts or rallies, LASTMA provides traffic control plans and personnel to manage increased vehicular volumes.
Road Safety Campaigns
They conduct public awareness drives, educating motorists and pedestrians on traffic rules, safe driving practices, and road etiquette.
Traffic Data Collection
LASTMA gathers real-time traffic data through surveillance and field reports to identify bottlenecks and plan interventions.
Emergency Response
Their rapid response teams attend to incidents like broken down vehicles, removing obstacles from roads swiftly.
Inter-Agency Collaboration
LASTMA coordinates with police, emergency services, and other transport bodies for unified incident management.
Other LASTMA duties include the following:
- Conduct research on drivers’ behavior and safety.
- To ensure hitch-free traffic flow on Lagos roads.
- To develop a culture of Regulation, Control, and Management of Traffic operations statewide.
- Determine works and devices designed to improve traffic flow and advise the appropriate roadworks officers at the locations where such works and devices are required.
Lagos State Traffic Management Authority Number
LASTMA stands for Lagos State Traffic Management Authority. It’s an agency responsible for managing traffic flow and enforcing traffic laws in Lagos State, Nigeria. Their primary goal is to reduce congestion and ensure smooth movement on the roads.
You can reach LASTMA via their emergency hotline numbers for reporting traffic gridlocks, accidents, or other road emergencies: [09129928597 WhatsApp Only], 0817472227, 08100565860, 08129928503
LASTMA is divided into several key departments that oversee different aspects of traffic management and road safety in Lagos. LASTMA is headed by a General Manager and other Directors in charge of the following departments/units:
- ACTING. General Manager : Mr. Bakare-Oki Olalekan-08129928558
- Director of Operations (DOP’s Mr. Gbejemede Peter – 08129928559)
- MR. ADEOSHUN HAKEEM -Director, Traffic Incidence, Events Monitoring, Compliance & Enforcement (08129928373)
- MR. OSHODI JUBRIL -Director, Logistics and Engineering (QMG)- (08129928749)
- MR. AWOYEMI JIMMY- Director, Traffic Advocacy and Special Traffic Mayors (08129928543)
- MR. AZEEZ ADEKUNLE-Director, Traffic Management and Survey Department (08129928512)
- MR. BAMGBASA SULAIMAN -Director, Traffic Safety Standards (08129928764)
- MR. AKINPELU AYUBA -Director, Human Capacity Development and Specialized Training (08129928582)
- Mr. Stephen Oshinowo- Director, Admin and Human Resources (08129928349)
- Mr. Odebiyi A.B.-Account Department (08129928502)
- Barrister Akerele Oseni K-Legal Department (08129928501)
- Mr. Sanni Olugbenga Abdulwasiu-Audit Unit (08129928513)
- Mr. Awesu S.A -Budget and Planning unit (08129928514)
- Mr. Adebayo T.A – Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department (08129928515)
- Mr. Obateru O- Procurement Unit ( 08129928531)
- Mr. Biliaminu Apena –Provost ( 08129928490)
- Mr. Adenusi Adekoyejo – I. C.T [08129928524]
Calling LASTMA can be helpful in various situations, such as reporting reckless drivers, accidents, gridlocks, or any obstructions disrupting traffic. Their officers can quickly intervene and keep things moving. However, be patient as they prioritize urgent cases during peak hours.
Lagos State Traffic Management Authority Contact Address & Social Media Handles
LASTMA has several zonal offices spread across different local government areas in Lagos to better manage traffic flow.
Address: L.S.T.C Building, Oshodi Apapa Expressway, Ilupeju, Lagos
Instagram: ekolastma
Twitter (X): @followlastma
Facebook: ekolastma
YouTube: lastmaTV
Email: infor@lastmalagos.com
Website: https://lastma.lagosstate.gov.ng/
Having these contact addresses handy can be useful for motorists and commuters in Lagos to easily reach the appropriate LASTMA authorities when needed.
Reporting Traffic Violations to LASTMA
These are some tips to help you report traffic violations to LASTMA:
Report the violation immediately
The key is to report violations as soon as possible. Jot down details like the vehicle’s license plate, color, make, and model. Note the time, location, and nature of the offence.
Gather evidence
If safe, try capturing photo or video evidence of the violation occurring. Having visual proof makes your case stronger.
File a report
Contact LASTMA via their hotline or website to officially file a violation report. Provide all the details you noted, along with any photos/videos. Be prepared with the officer’s name and badge number if reporting misconduct.
Follow up persistently
Don’t assume your report will be addressed right away. Follow up regularly until the issue is resolved satisfactorily. Consistent pressure shows you’re serious.
Spread awareness
If the violation seems part of a larger pattern, consider informing local media or community groups. Raising public awareness can motivate LASTMA to crack down.
How Much is Traffic Offence in Lagos State?
Lagos Traffic Law is intended to safeguard law-abiding road users. It is also intended to ensure that people who violate any of its provisions face the repercussions of their actions, allowing them to be rehabilitated and rejoin the law-abiding community. Traffic offenses are known as strict liability offenses: you commit the offense, and you must pay the consequences. To avoid being caught off guard, we have highlighted the Lagos state traffic infractions and their repercussions below.
| S/N | Offences | Point | Fine | Additional penalties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Violation of routes by commercial vehicles | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 2 | Non-display of route and routes number on vehicle | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 3 | Disobeying traffic control personnel | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Impounded vehicle |
| 4 | Parking on the yellow line on any public highway /illegal parking (including trailers) | 4 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 5 | Vehicle crossing double line/centre line | 4 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 6 | Staying within the yellow junction box (offside rule) | 3 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 7 | Failure to give way to right of way of pedestrians at a Zebra crossing | 3 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 8 | Failure to give way to traffic on the left at a roundabout | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 9 | Smoking while driving | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 10 | Riding a motorcycle without a crash helmet for riders. | 1 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Imprisonment for a term of six months or both fine and Imprisonment |
| 11 | Riding a motorcycle without rider’s permit | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Impounded motorcycle |
| 12 | Riding motorcycle:
i. Against traffic ii. On the kerb, median or road setbacks |
3 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Impounded motorcycle |
| 13 | Conveying more than one passenger at any given time (motorcycle) | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Imprisonment for a term of six months or both fine and Imprisonment |
| 14 | Installation of a musical gadget on a motorcycle | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Impound the set |
| 15 | Motorcyclist resisting arrest | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
||
| 16 | Operating motorcycle without side mirrors, trafficators, brake light or rear light | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 17 | motorcycle operators carrying
i. Pregnant woman ii. Adult with baby iii. Child below the age of twelve years |
1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Imprisonment for a term of three years or both fine and Imprisonment | |
| 18 | Under aged person (under 18 years old) riding a motorcycle | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Dislodged rider |
| 19 | Motorcycle operating using horn designed for motor vehicles | 1 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Remove horn |
| 20 | Operating a motorcycle in a restricted area or on a prohibited route | 3 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Impounded motorcycle |
| 21 | Exceeding prescribed speed limit | 2 | N100,000 | Imprisonment for a term of one year or both fine and Imprisonment |
| 22 | Tailgating an emergency vehicle | 3 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 23 | Failure of slow-moving vehicle to keep to the right lane | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 24 | Assault on traffic officer (physical) | 3 | Imprisonment for a term of three years or both fine and Imprisonment | |
| 25 | Driving in a direction prohibited by the road traffic law/ Neglect of traffic directions | 4 | Forfeiture of the vehicle to the state | 1st offender-one year, Imprisonment and forfeiture of the vehicle to the state
2nd and subsequent offender- three years Imprisonment and forfeiture of the vehicle to the state, and shall their data and biometrics captured |
| 26 | Illegal U-turn | 3 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Driver Training |
| 27 | Wrong overtaking of other vehicles | 2 | N100,000 | |
| 28 | Overloading of a commercial vehicle on the highway | 4 | N50,000 | Dislodge excess |
| 29 | Driving on the walkway or kerbs | 4 | N50,000 | |
| 30 | Parking on the walkway or kerbs | 3 | N20,000 | |
| 31 | Parking or stopping to pick up passengers by a commercial vehicle on the highway | 3 | N20,000 | Driver Training |
| 32 | Bullion van driving in a direction prohibited by the road traffic law | 5 | Forfeiture of vehicle | Imprisonment for a term of three years, or both fine and Imprisonment |
| 33 | Abandoned vehicle on highway | 2 | N50,000, cost of towing | Imprisonment for a term of six months, or both fine and Imprisonment |
| 34 | Causing obstruction on highway if broken down | 2 | N50,000, cost of towing | |
| 35 | Commuter or conductor hanging on the tailboard of moving vehicle | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Dislodge and sanction driver |
| 36 | Driving vehicles with doors left open | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 37 | Making or receiving phone calls when driving without hands-free | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 38 | Counting money or otherwise engaged in other activities when driving | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 39 | Driving without a strapped seat belt for both driver and passengers | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Strap on seat belt |
| 40 | Failure to display reflective warning sign at the point of break down | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 41 | Motorist resisting arrest | 2 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
|
| 42 | Use of BRT Lite corridor | 3 | 1st offender- N20,000
Subsequent Offender- N30,000 |
Imprisonment for a term of three years, or both fine and Imprisonment |
| 43 | Willful Obstruction on Highway | 2 | N50,000; cost of towing | Imprisonment for a term of one year, or both fine and Imprisonment |
| 44 | Storage charge for impounded cars, jeeps, and minibuses per day | N10,000 | ||
| 45 | Storage charge for all other impounded vehicles and 3-wheelers per day | N500 | ||
| 46 | Storage charge for all other impounded vehicles (6 wheelers and above per day) | N2,000 | ||
| 47 | Towing an impounded car, jeep, and minibuses | N10,000 | ||
| 48 | Towing other commercial vehicles, excluding trailers | N10,000 | ||
| 49 | Towing a trailer or tanker (empty) | N50,000 | ||
| 50 | Towing a trailer or tanker (loaded) | N100,000 | ||
| 51 | Towing tippers and lorries (loaded) | N50,000 | ||
| 52 | Towing luxurious buses | N50,000 | ||
| 53 | Towing an overnight breakdown (trailer) | N100,000 | ||
| 54 | Towing tricycles | N2,000 | ||
| 55 | Towing motorcycles | N500 | ||
| 56 | Hire of heavy-duty recovery equipment (Towing/ Recovery fees) | At the hirer’s cost | ||
| 57 | Failure to pay the penalty within the prescribed time | Double the initial penalty |
The fines can vary based on the severity and location of the offence. Repeated violations may lead to higher penalties or vehicle impoundment. Ensure you follow all traffic rules to avoid costly fines in Lagos.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some frequently asked questions and answers about LASTMA.
What is LASTMA?
LASTMA stands for the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority. It is a law enforcement agency responsible for managing road traffic and preventing gridlock in Lagos state, Nigeria.
Why is LASTMA important?
With over 20 million residents, Lagos is one of the most congested cities in the world. LASTMA officers help keep vehicles moving and ensure road safety by enforcing traffic rules and regulations.
How can I identify LASTMA officers?
LASTMA patrol officers wear bright yellow uniforms with the agency’s logo. Their vehicles are also painted in yellow and brown colors or white and black, with “LASTMA” prominently displayed.
What powers do LASTMA officers have?
LASTMA officers are authorized to issue citations and fines for traffic violations like illegal parking, obstructing traffic flow, and reckless driving. They can also tow vehicles parked illegally.
What is LASTMA’s number?
The contact number for the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) is 0817472227, 08100565860, or 08129928503. This hotline allows you to reach their offices for inquiries, complaints, or emergencies related to traffic management across Lagos.
When should I call them?
You can call LASTMA’s hotline anytime you encounter a traffic situation that requires their intervention. This could be for reporting gridlocks, accidents blocking roads, or vehicles parked illegally causing obstruction. Their officials can be dispatched to manage the traffic flow efficiently.
Are there other ways to reach them?
Absolutely. Apart from the hotline, you can also tweet them @followlastma on Twitter (X) or send a message on their Facebook page (ekolastma) for non-emergency situations. Their social media handles are actively monitored for public queries and feedback.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it, folks, the lowdown on the LASTMA number and how you can use it to report traffic violations or get help from traffic officers in Lagos. Whether you’re a driver who needs assistance or a concerned citizen who wants to make the roads safer, that number is your direct line. Keep it handy in your phone contacts or on a note in your car. Lagos traffic is legendary, but we can all do our part to make it flow better. Drive safely out there, treat other drivers and LASTMA with respect even when tensions run high, and don’t hesitate to call for help when you need it. Together, we can transform Lagos traffic, one phone call at a time.