Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA)

LASTMA was “mandated by the Lagos State Government to improve enforcement of traffic laws, set new standards and rulings, and encourage compliance among road users” (Otunola et. al). This authority was formed in 2002, and recent research has proven that it was a much needed addition. Violations of traffic laws are a primary reason for traffic congestion in Lagos, and LASTMA works to combat that. A survey done in 2012 indicates “Law and Order” issues like picking up passengers on the roadway, and driving against the flow of traffic are the major reasons for congestion (Ibitayo). LASTMA has acknowledged these issues and was formed to improve the road situation.

Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA)

LATAMA is an authority more specific to public transportation that was formed in 2002. It is responsible for the more recent developments in public transportation, like the Bus Rapid Transit system, and the Lagos Rail Mass Transit System. The authority is “responsible for planning, implementing, regulating and franchising public transport infrastructure and operations” (LAMATA). Their main task after formation was to improve the existing transport system to integrate an urban rail system and a government run bus system. Thus far, the BRT Lite system has started successfully and has been running since 2008. The urban rail system, however, is still under construction.