The Lagos State Government has demonstrated renewed commitment to the welfare of public servants as it disbursed a total of ₦40 million to families of officers of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) who lost their lives in active service.

The intervention was announced on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, during a financial presentation ceremony organised by LASTMA in honour of its fallen officers.

Giwa explained that the decision was inspired by the agency’s 25th anniversary celebration held on July 15, 2025, where the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. According to him, the event brought to the fore the daily dangers, sacrifices, and harsh realities faced by LASTMA personnel on Lagos roads.

He revealed that Governor Sanwo-Olu subsequently approved the sum of ₦2 million for each family of officers who died in service, describing the gesture as a mark of recognition rather than compensation.

“The governor noted that in traffic management, the greatest victories are often unseen and the greatest praises unsung,” Giwa said. “This support is not a payment for their loss, because no amount can equate the value of a human life, but a tangible expression of the state’s appreciation of their courage, duty, and sacrifice.”

He added that the presentation ceremony marked the fulfilment of the governor’s pledge, following the completion of all necessary documentation and due process.

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olawale Musa, described the deceased officers as true heroes who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. He disclosed that no fewer than 17 LASTMA officers lost their lives last year alone.

Musa recounted several tragic incidents, including officers being attacked with stones in Apapa and one crushed to death by a trailer, stressing that traffic officials are often exposed to danger and deserve greater protection and respect.

“Many people overlook the sacrifices these officers make daily. It is only when issues arise that complaints surface, yet they operate under constant risk,” he said.

Earlier, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the ceremony was organised to honour the memories of the fallen officers and to reassure their families that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enhancing road safety and implementing measures aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.