By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has announced plans to introduce a toll-free short code to enhance communication with residents and improve traffic management across the state.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, disclosed this in Lagos, stating that the initiative is aimed at replacing the current long-digit contact lines with a simpler, easy-to-remember number for public use.
He explained that the short code, expected to go live within the next two to three weeks, would allow motorists and residents to report traffic situations, emergencies, and misconduct by traffic officials directly to the agency.
According to him, the service will be free and is currently awaiting final approval from telecommunications providers, while installation of necessary equipment and infrastructure has been completed.
Bakare-Oki added that the platform would also enable residents to provide real-time updates on traffic congestion and other road-related incidents, helping the agency respond more quickly and efficiently.
He noted that LASTMA’s digital call centre currently operates with about 10 responders and supports multiple languages, including English and Yoruba, to ensure wider accessibility.
The development is part of broader efforts by the agency to adopt technology-driven solutions and strengthen collaboration with emergency responders such as the police, ambulance services, and fire service to address traffic challenges in Lagos.
Officials say the introduction of the short code is expected to boost public engagement, improve transparency, and enhance service delivery in managing traffic across Nigeria’s busiest commercial hub.
