Lagos Adopts Drone Technology for Smarter Traffic Control
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has officially launched drone operations to boost traffic monitoring, security surveillance, and public safety across the city. This initiative represents a major shift from conventional traffic control to intelligence-driven, predictive operations powered by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
The announcement was made in a statement issued by Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at LASTMA.
Real-Time Aerial Oversight and Faster Emergency Response
According to Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager of LASTMA, the drones will provide real-time aerial views of Lagos roads. This will allow:
- Faster intervention during traffic congestion and accidents.
- Reduced travel times for motorists.
- Improved emergency response coordination.
- A stronger security framework.
- A more disciplined motoring culture.
Bakare-Oki described the deployment as a watershed moment in Lagos traffic management, noting that it places LASTMA at the forefront of digital governance.
“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,” Bakare-Oki said.
Commitment to Privacy and Public Trust
The agency assured Lagos residents that drone operations will strictly comply with:
- Privacy safeguards
- Ethical standards
- Regulatory requirements
This commitment is aimed at maintaining public trust while using advanced technology to improve traffic flow and safety.
Broader Lagos Transport Technology Upgrades
The Lagos State Government’s adoption of drones is part of a larger digital transformation of road traffic management.
- In February 2025, the government partnered with Huawei Technologies to deploy four Intelligent Transport System (ITS) sites across key locations to improve road safety.
- The state also introduced Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to detect overspeeding and traffic violations.
- New e-police checkpoints were installed at Allen Avenue Junction and Nurudeen Olowopopo Road, equipped with high-definition cameras to capture violations such as:
- Running red lights
- Lane indiscipline
- Illegal U-turns
- Reverse driving
These efforts reflect a growing reliance on technology-driven enforcement to ensure safer, faster, and more efficient transport systems in Lagos.
Final Takeaway
With the launch of drones for traffic monitoring and security surveillance, LASTMA is setting a new standard in urban traffic management. Combined with AI-powered systems, e-police checkpoints, and ITS deployments, Lagos is moving towards a smarter, safer, and more digitally managed transport future.
