The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) says it will introduce a short code to enable residents, especially motorists, to engage with the agency and share road information.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, disclosed this in an interview with reporters on Monday in Lagos.
“The agency is working to secure a short code instead of the long number currently in use.
“In the next two to three weeks, our call centre will introduce a free short code. We have completed all necessary processes and are awaiting final approval from the network provider.
“This platform will allow Lagos residents, especially motorists, to engage with us and provide information,” he said.
He added that equipment and machinery are currently being installed to kick-start the short code service.
He explained that the agency expects residents to provide information on officers’ conduct on the road, emergency situations, traffic congestion, feedback, and other relevant reports.
Bakare-Oki also noted that LASTMA’s digital call centre currently has 10 responders, and residents can contact the agency in Yoruba, English, and other local languages.
He highlighted the agency’s strong collaboration with other emergency responders, including the Lagos State Ambulance Service, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Police, and the Lagos State Emergency Management Authority.
“There is top-notch inter-agency collaboration, which enables us to effectively address emergencies and traffic issues in the state,” he said.
Bakare-Oki said the agency received nearly 300 calls between January and March.
However, he noted a shortfall due to the ongoing integration of the new short code system.
“The system has been experiencing downtime because of the integration.
“We assure residents that in the next two to three weeks, we will be fully operational again, with improved service delivery,” he said.
