Dare Babalola
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging data-driven solutions and technology to tackle parking challenges across the state.
This initiative aims to improve traffic flow, enhance productivity, and promote orderliness on Lagos roads.
The Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) disclosed plans to commence the pilot phase of on-street parking in key areas such as Lekki, Ikoyi, Surulere, and other parts of the state.
Speaking at the Annual Staff Retreat of LASPA, held on Friday in Ikeja with the theme “From Parking Pains to Productivity Gains”, the Commissioner for Transportation, 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.
“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.
He emphasised the need for a coordinated data management framework and the adoption of digital innovations to replace manual enforcement processes.
He added, “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.”
The Commissioner 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.
During the panel discussion session on “Streamlining Our Enforcement Operations For Sustainable Growth”, Hon. Giwa noted that dedication, discipline, and collaboration are essential to achieving success.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Olawale Musa, called on members of the public to support government initiatives, rather than obstruct law enforcement officers on assignment.
“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.
In her remarks, the General Manager of 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 parts of Lagos.
“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.
