Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria — The Lagos State Government releases ₦40 million in compensation to families of traffic officers who die while enforcing order on the state’s roads.
The payment, approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, benefits 20 families of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) personnel, with ₦2 million allocated per family.
The Special Adviser on Transportation, Sola Giwa, announces the disbursement during a memorial financial presentation for fallen officers.
“This is not payment for loss,” Giwa says. “It is a tangible recognition of duty, courage and sacrifice.”
He explains that the decision follows reflections during LASTMA’s 25th anniversary celebration, where Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat highlights the dangers faced by traffic officers.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Olawale Musa, reveals that 17 LASTMA officers died in active service last year alone, citing fatal assaults and accidents.
“Some officers are stoned, others crushed by heavy vehicles,” Musa says. “These are heroes who pay the ultimate price.”
LASTMA General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki says the event honours fallen officers and reassures families of continued government support.
“We stand with the families and reaffirm our commitment to safer roads,” he says.
Road safety advocates welcome the move but call for stronger enforcement and public awareness to protect officers on duty.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
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