The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has said it will reinstate psychiatric assessments as a penalty for individuals violating traffic offences across the state.

The Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Sola Giwa, said this on Wednesday at the unveiling of the communiqué of the 25th anniversary of the agency held in the Victoria Island area of the state.

Giwa stressed that the communiqué was drafted following suggestions from various stakeholders.

According to him, some of the resolutions of the communiqué included psychiatric assessments for traffic offenders, prosecution of individuals who assault LASTMA personnel, and continuous training for its officers.

He said, “It was unequivocally affirmed that any individual who physically or verbally assaults LASTMA officers shall face immediate legal prosecution, with such cases widely publicised to serve as a deterrent and uphold the dignity of uniformed officers.

“Traffic management strategies should incorporate behavioural science principles, while road safety education must be embedded into primary and secondary school curricula to build a new generation of law-abiding road users.

“The agency should reinstate psychiatric assessments as a penalty for individuals apprehended for driving against traffic (one-way), in line with previous safety-oriented reforms to re-instil fear and law-abiding spirit in citizens.”

Giwa added that other recommendations included career development, training and capacity building, collaboration with sister security agencies, and investment in research innovations.

He continued, “LASTMA is encouraged to establish a Unified Mobility Control Centre, expand Intelligent Transport Systems across priority corridors, and equip traffic officers with training in artificial intelligence and real-time data tools to enhance precision in enforcement and incident management.

“Engender financial inclusivity amongst the cadre in the agency through cooperatives and microfinance organisations to create financial support packages, granting officers easier access to loans for education of their children, healthcare, and family needs.

“A structure should be introduced to provide subsidised essential services for traffic officers. Officers are encouraged to remain committed, focused, and uphold integrity, with reassurance that their dedication will eventually be rewarded.”

He concluded by urging members of the public to continuously support the agency in its efforts to ensure the safety of road users.

In his remarks, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, Ayodeji Gbeleyi, commended LASTMA for its innovative drive that has seen to the adoption of digital traffic management.

Gbeleyi, who was represented by the Assistant Director, Infrastructure and PPP, Nonso Okechukwu, emphasised that these innovations have helped to improve travellers’ experience across the state.

PUNCH Metro reports that Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday, during the 25th anniversary of the state traffic management agency, vowed to prosecute any member of the public caught assaulting LASTMA officials.