The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has unveiled its Customer Support Centre and Application aimed at revolutionising traffic management in the state.
The centre was unveiled by Mr Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, on Tuesday, in Lagos.
Giwa said the application comprises Toll Free Call Centre, Walk In Complaint Centre, Website, Whistle Blower App and New Department of Statistics Research and Data.
He said the initiatives would boost communication between the public and traffic management authority in the state.
Giwa added that it would simplify traffic operations, and significantly improve the overall driving experience in the bustling commercial capital.
“No doubt, Lagos is densely populated and this sometimes results to daily gridlocks, accidents, contributing to our city’s traffic challenges.
“In response to these challenges, the Customers Support Centre aims to provide real-time, efficient solution to traffic management, reflecting our government’s commitment to leveraging technology for public service enhancement.
“The Call Centre is a state-of-the-art facility, operational 24/7, staffed by trained professionals skilled at handling a wide range of traffic-related issues.
“Motorists can contact the call centre via toll-free dedicated hotlines to report traffic incidents, request assistance, or seek information on road conditions, including reports on the activities of LASTMA personnel,” he said.
Giwa noted that using advanced technology, the call centre would track incidents, dispatch traffic officers, and coordinate with other emergency services when necessary.
He said the integrated approach would ensure that help was always just a phone call away, providing a lifeline for motorists caught in traffic distress.
Speaking further on the benefits, Giwa said the call centre had the ability to accept reports on accidents and unexpected roadblocks.
He said that motorists could quickly notify LASTMA for swift deployment of traffic officers.
“Beyond incident reporting, the call centre will also serve as an information hub for motorists. Drivers can call in to get real-time updates on road conditions and traffic advisories.
“The Walk-In Complaint Centre represents a significant step in fostering better communication between LASTMA and the public and thus ensure transparency, accountability and build public trust.
“The Whistle Blower App will afford motorists and other road users report dangerous driving and other reckless behaviours on the road, enabling LASTMA to take immediate action and uphold traffic regulations.
“The importance of the website aligns with our broader vision of creating a smart city where technology enhances the quality of urban living. It embodies the principles of proactive governance.
“Also, statistics and data are leveraged to solve complex urban challenges. For LASTMA, all these initiatives mark a significant move towards modernising traffic management and aligning with global best practices,” he said.
He noted that with the launch of the customer support centres and application, motorists should expect a seamless, user-friendly experience.
“I, therefore, urge all motorists to embrace this new tool and become active participants in the drive towards better traffic management in Lagos,” he said.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, noted that these initiatives would give LASTMA the opportunity to be reached than what they had before.
“As has been said, see something, say something, we cannot cover everywhere, this kind of resources is a wonderful idea that will enable us be more accessible.
“This will always put us on our toes in area of service. Ones you know that someone is watching you, it will just make one to do more better,” he said.
Osiyemi said that in the past, there were complaints that LASTMA was not working up to par.
He added that they had to be intentional with what they do and this birthed these initiatives.
“Lagos State will always listen and be there for residents, we are here to serve and Mr Governor from his T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda has big plans for us in the transportation sector.
“As regards many complaints coming in, from what we saw inside, we have 10 men taking toll-free calls and we have more than enough resources to address any issue,” he said.
Also, General Manager, LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said ‘the see something, say something’ slogan was a welcome development for LASTMA even if the issue had to with its officials.
“In this agency we prioritise feedback, especially for the motoring public in Lagos State and this will enhance our service delivery to enable us perform optimally.
