Lagos Disburses N40 Million to Fallen LASTMA Officers

The Lagos State Government has paid N40m to the families of personnel of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) who lost their lives while on active duty.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr Sola Giwa, made this known on Wednesday at a financial presentation ceremony organised by LASTMA to honour its fallen officers.

Giwa explained that the decision followed the agency’s 25th anniversary on July 15, 2025, when the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reflected on the dangers, challenges and sacrifices faced daily by LASTMA officers.

Lagos Disburses N40 Million to Fallen LASTMA Officers. Credit: News Verge.

He said the governor subsequently approved the payment of N2 million to each affected family as a recognition of the courage and commitment shown by officers who died in service.

According to Giwa, the governor emphasised that the silent victories recorded in traffic management often go unnoticed and uncelebrated. He stressed that the financial support was not compensation for the loss of life, as no amount could equal such a sacrifice, but a clear expression of the state’s appreciation for duty and bravery.

He added that the ceremony marked the fulfilment of the government’s pledge after all required documentation and due process had been completed.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Mr Olawale Musa, described the deceased officers as heroes who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. He disclosed that 17 LASTMA officers died last year alone, underscoring the risks traffic officials face on Lagos roads.

Musa cited incidents in which officers were attacked in Apapa and another crushed by a trailer, noting that despite frequent public criticism, officers confront life-threatening situations daily and deserve greater protection and recognition.

Earlier, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the event aimed to honour the memory of the deceased officers and support their families. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to improving road safety and preventing similar tragedies.

The News Agency of Nigeria reported that 20 families benefited from the support.

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Toyibat Ajose

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