The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed commitment to deploying data-driven and technology-enhanced solutions to tackle parking challenges across the State. This initiative aims to improve traffic flow, enhance productivity, and promote orderliness on Lagos roads.
Speaking at the annual staff retreat of the Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA), held on Friday in Ikeja with the theme “From Parking pains to productivity gains”, the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, commended LASPA staff for their resilience and professionalism despite the demanding nature of their work, which often brings them into conflict with members of the public.
According to the Commissioner, effective parking regulation remains a vital component of urban traffic management, and LASPA has continued to discharge its duties with commendable commitment.
“You are doing well because your work often puts you at loggerheads with the public. However, you have continued to carry out your duties professionally and without deterrence.
”A well-managed parking system is essential to a city like Lagos — it reduces congestion, improves traffic efficiency, boosts business productivity, and creates a more organized urban environment,” he said.
Osiyemi emphasized the need for a coordinated data management framework and the adoption of digital innovations to replace manual enforcement processes.
He added that the State’s vision is to transition Lagos into a modern, technology-driven smart city with seamless mobility and efficient service delivery.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, commended the efforts of LASPA in the parking management system of the State.
While speaking on the topic “Streamlining Our Enforcement Operations For Sustainable Growth” during the panel discussion session, Hon. Giwa, noted that dedicated, discipline and collaboration are essential to achieving success.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olawale Musa, called on members of the public to support government initiatives, rather than obstruct, law enforcement officers on assignment.
He informed that commercial drivers and traffic violators often feel emboldened by public sympathy, leading to unruly and unsafe practices.
Musa added that anyone who attacks a law enforcement officer in Lagos would face serious consequences, noting that offenders in the past had been made to face the full weight of the law.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering synergy among relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to achieve seamless operations in parking management.
Earlier in her address the General Manager, LASPA, Mrs. Adebisi Adelabu, announced plans by the Agency to commence the pilot phase of on-street parking in key areas such as Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Ikeja, Surulere and would later extend to other axis of Lagos.
Adelabu explained that the advocacy for on-street parking had been ongoing for the past two years, adding that enforcement would commence next year to ensure free movement for both pedestrians and motorists across Lagos.
She further stated that beyond technology and regulation, LASPA is intensifying public sensitization on pool driving and shared mobility, as part of measures to decongest the roads and promote sustainable transportation.
The LASPA boss added that the retreat provided a valuable platform for staff to review the year’s performance, share insights, and strategize on innovative approaches to transform parking management from a source of friction to a catalyst for efficiency, productivity, and economic growth in Lagos State.
The retreat featured talks and a short quiz on LASPA’s core values as well as an Ethics quiz facilitated by the Executive Assistant to the Governor on LASPA, Mr. Deen Sanwoola and the Director, Budget and Planning, LASPA, Mrs, Abimbola Lawal respectively.
