The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has inaugurated a new initiative inducting prominent media practitioners as “Traffic Mayors” to support efforts at ensuring order, safety, and smooth traffic flow across the state.

According to a statement by Adebayo Taofiq, Director of the Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, the initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between LASTMA and the media by leveraging the influence of journalists to encourage public compliance, promote civic enlightenment, and reshape the behaviour of road users.

Speaking at the inauguration, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, highlighted the media’s critical role in shaping public consciousness and driving societal change. He described the initiative as a milestone in traffic governance, noting that media professionals would serve as ambassadors of orderliness and civic discipline in Lagos’ transport system.

“This initiative is a deliberate attempt to broaden stakeholder engagement by embedding media practitioners as active participants in the campaign for traffic sanity. Their induction as ‘Traffic Mayors’ will deepen voluntary compliance among motorists,” Bakare-Oki said.

Under the framework, Traffic Mayors will work with LASTMA officers to sensitise motorists, amplify traffic advisories, counter misinformation, and model lawful conduct on Lagos roads.

Director of Traffic Advocacy and Special Mayor, Awoyemi Jimmy, commended the project as a significant innovation, stressing that sustainable traffic management in Lagos requires partnerships with thought leaders. media professionals, and civic groups.

He added that the initiative aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to deploying diverse solutions for seamless mobility, economic growth, and the safety of Lagos residents.