Lagos Loses N1 Trillion Annually to Traffic Gridlock – Sanwo-Olu’s Aide

The Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Sola Giwa, has revealed that Lagos State suffers an estimated annual economic loss of N1 trillion due to the severe traffic congestion plaguing the city.

Speaking on Tuesday at the opening of the Second Lagos Traffic Conference held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Giwa noted that Lagos commuters spend an average of six hours daily in traffic, significantly hampering productivity.

The event was part of activities marking the 25th anniversary of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA). Giwa added that ongoing traffic management interventions have already helped the state recoup about N4 billion in lost productivity.

Themed “Enhancing Traffic Efficiency and Safety on Lagos Roads: Challenges, Opportunities, and Innovations,” the three-day conference was declared open by Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat.

The conference brought together transport experts, urban planners, policymakers, law enforcement agencies, academics, private sector leaders, and international stakeholders to explore innovative solutions to Lagos’s traffic woes.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Lagos State 20-Year Strategic Traffic Management Policy by LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki. The comprehensive plan aims to overhaul the state’s traffic ecosystem through road infrastructure upgrades, improved enforcement, and adoption of smart mobility technologies.