The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has introduced a technology-driven traffic control plan, including the use of drones, to facilitate smooth vehicular movement across the state during the annual Detty December celebrations.
The initiative comes in anticipation of the usual surge in socio-economic and recreational activities during the yuletide period.
In a statement on Sunday, LASTMA spokesperson Taofiq Adebayo said the agency had implemented a comprehensive, intelligence-led traffic management system aimed at ensuring free-flowing traffic and public safety throughout Lagos.
The statement noted that highly trained traffic personnel have been strategically deployed, while surveillance and round-the-clock monitoring have been intensified at major roads, commercial districts, event hotspots, and critical traffic corridors.
“With the heightened socio-economic activities typical of Detty December, including concerts, carnivals, end-of-year events, and religious gatherings, LASTMA has stepped up operational readiness through targeted deployment, reinforced surveillance, and continuous monitoring,” the statement read.
Regarding drone usage, LASTMA revealed that the devices will monitor traffic in real-time and identify potential security threats, with information promptly relayed to relevant security agencies for immediate action.
The agency also confirmed the deployment of traffic enforcement devices to capture violations in real time, aiming to reduce physical confrontations between officers and motorists. Speed monitoring devices have also been installed to check reckless driving.
LASTMA further warned owners of event centres, clubs, lounges, and entertainment facilities to manage parking and internal traffic effectively to avoid spillover onto public roads, which could lead to gridlock and prompt enforcement action.
Market leaders and traders were also urged to prevent the unlawful display of goods on roads, walkways, and pedestrian paths, which endangers pedestrians and increases traffic congestion.
Motorists were advised to ensure their vehicles are mechanically sound before traveling during the festive period and to avoid drunk driving, speeding, and other reckless behaviors.
The agency assured residents that enforcement teams would remain vigilant throughout Detty December, tackling illegal parking, road obstruction, speeding, and impaired driving.
LASTMA appealed to all road users to cooperate with traffic officers, obey regulations, and exercise patience, emphasizing that collective compliance is key to a smooth and safe festive season. Residents can report traffic issues via the toll-free hotline 0800 005 27862. Tow trucks of varying capacities have also been strategically positioned, particularly along the Lekki-Ajah corridor, for rapid response to incidents.
The state has already experienced increased traffic in the past 72 hours, with residents expressing frustration over gridlocks in certain areas.
