In a bold move to enhance public awareness and accountability in traffic management, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA has inducted 12 leading Nigerian media professionals into its newly launched “Media Mayor” initiative.
They are President of the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), Comrade Oki O. Samson, Kayode Ladeinde, Executive Editor, TVC News,Victor Oteri, Director of Programmes, Traffic Radio and Joshua Morakinyo, Lagos Television (LTV).
Others include Okunade Folarin, Bond 92.9 FM, Opeyemi Makinde, Adamimogo 93.1 FM, Adeola Oluwole, Publisher, Integrity News TV, Kazeem Bakenne, MD, National Moments News Online and Soares Olaniyi, Mainland FM.
The initiative aims to forge stronger partnerships between LASTMA and the media in advancing traffic discipline, public education, and operational transparency across Lagos.
The investiture ceremony, held on Wednesday, September 24, at LASTMA Headquarters in Oshodi, was presided over by the General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who described the initiative as a strategic response to the evolving demands of urban mobility and civic engagement.
Mr. Bakare-Oki explained that the Media Mayor programme is designed to formally integrate media practitioners into the traffic governance ecosystem of Lagos.
“This platform is not just symbolic—it entrusts you with a civic responsibility to support LASTMA’s public education efforts, deliver accurate traffic information, and hold us accountable,” he stated.
“The Media Mayors will serve as both communicators and conscience for the vision of a disciplined, technology-driven, and people-focused traffic system in Lagos.”
The initiative also aligns with the Lagos State Government’s THEMES+ Agenda, which prioritizes efficient transportation and environmental sustainability.
Speaking on the collaborative spirit of the initiative, Director of Traffic Advocacy at LASTMA, Mr. Awoyemi Jimmy, described the induction as a milestone in agency-media relations.
“It’s a win-win collaboration. We need your voices to highlight our progress, share accurate reports, and drive change in public behavior on Lagos roads,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the new Media Mayors, Comrade Oki O. Samson, praised the initiative as timely and essential. He emphasized their readiness to support LASTMA’s mission while advocating for responsible driving, ethical enforcement, and a better commuting experience for all Lagosians.
He also noted that under Bakare-Oki’s leadership, LASTMA has shown visible improvements in professionalism and public engagement.
“There’s been a remarkable transformation in the agency’s conduct and communication. This partnership will further strengthen those gains,” he said.
The inductees pledged to use their platforms to promote safety, spotlight traffic infractions where necessary, and support LASTMA’s ongoing reforms.