LAGOS, NIGERIA – Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision of a technologically advanced, efficient, and well-regulated Lagos has taken a major step forward with the launch of four new Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) sites across the metropolis. Unveiling the cutting-edge technology at a press briefing on Thursday, February 6, 2025, Commissioner for Transportation Oluwaseun Osiyemi emphasized that this expansion significantly strengthens the state’s efforts to combat traffic congestion and road accidents. The announcement, made at the Ministry of Transportation conference room, highlights the government’s commitment to leveraging innovation for a more seamless and secure transportation network
The newly deployed ITS sites bring advanced technology, including real-time monitoring, to the forefront of traffic management and law enforcement. Two of the sites are dedicated Checkpoint Sites for Speed Detection. The first, located at Nitel, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, will enforce an 60km/h speed limit. The second, positioned at Alapere, Ogudu Road, will monitor compliance with a 80km/h limit. These installations, according to Osiyemi, are a direct response to the problem of over-speeding, a leading cause of accidents on Lagos roads.
Complementing the speed detection sites are two E-Police Stations for Monitoring Traffic Violations. These are strategically located at Allen Avenue Road Junction and Nurudeen Olowopopo Road. Equipped with high-definition cameras, these stations are designed to capture various traffic violations, including disregarding traffic signals, incorrect lane discipline, unauthorized U-turns, and the hazardous act of driving in reverse on highways.
Regulation through the ITS will be swift, with offending motorists receiving instant alerts from the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS). The messages will specify the exact violation, with a N20,000 penalty for running a red light and a N50,000 fine for exceeding speed limits. The system is not about penalizing drivers but rather about fostering a culture of responsible driving, ultimately aimed at reducing accidents and enhancing road safety for everyone, Osiyemi emphasized.
Beyond immediate enforcement, the ITS promises a range of long-term advantages. Osiyemi highlighted improved road safety, reduced congestion through real-time traffic monitoring, analytics-based insights for city development, and greater transparency in law enforcement by minimizing human intervention. He appealed to all road users, including private vehicle owners, public transport providers, and commercial drivers, to embrace the new system and follow traffic regulations, stressing the importance of adhering to speed limits, using lanes properly, and avoiding reckless driving. “The goal is simple,” he stated, “to save lives, protect property, and create an orderly transportation environment in Lagos.
Olatubosun Alake, the Commissioner for Innovation, Science & Technology, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to transforming Lagos into a technology-driven city. He described the ITS as a crucial tool in addressing the traffic challenges posed by the state’s burgeoning population. “The ITS was introduced as a technology service years ago to enhance traffic management, ensuring order on the roads while driving economic progress,” Alake explained. He noted the existing e-Police system and other initiatives aimed at efficient traffic regulation. Alake believes that integrating technology into the transportation sector will not only enhance road safety but also empower agencies like LASTMA, making their operations more efficient and data-driven. “With this innovation, we can create a safer and more organized traffic environment. This is just the beginning of many transformative solutions to come, all aimed at benefiting the people and boosting economic activities,” he added.
Olawale Musa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, offered further reassurance that the ITS is not a revenue-generating scheme but a vital tool for ensuring road safety and compliance. He explained the system’s precision, noting that the cameras capture speed violations, the offender’s face, and the footage is meticulously reviewed before a violation ticket is issued. Musa reiterated that the core objective is to promote responsible driving, reduce accidents, and improve overall traffic management across Lagos.