Lagos State To Install 3,000 Smart Cameras For Enhanced Road Safety.
The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to install 3,000 smart cameras across the state to improve road safety and traffic management.
The Director of the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS), Mr Akin-George Fashola, disclosed this initiative during a radio programme monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday. According to him, the cameras will serve as electronic policing (e-policing) tools to enforce road safety regulations and monitor speed limits effectively.
Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) for Safer Roads
Fashola explained that the initiative is part of the state’s Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), designed to enhance traffic monitoring, management, and enforcement of road laws.
“This year, the VIS will focus more on enforcing speed limits in Lagos,” he stated.
“It’s not a new initiative, but we need to be more rigorous in implementation. We must slow people down to reduce the high rate of accidents in the state.”
As part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision for improved traffic management, smart cameras have already been installed in key locations, including Alapere, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, and Allen Junction.
Speed Limits and Enforcement Measures
Fashola provided details on the designated speed limits in these areas:
– Alapere: 80 km/h inward Alausa and 60 km/h outward toward Oworonshoki due to high pedestrian traffic and the nature of the expressway.
– Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way: 60 km/h, as it is a densely populated area with frequent pedestrian crossings.
– Allen Junction: Cameras will focus on detecting violations such as running red lights and failing to stop at designated areas rather than monitoring speed limits.
To ensure compliance, motorists exceeding speed limits will be fined ₦50,000. Violations detected by the ITS will trigger SMS notifications from the VIS, detailing the offence and the corresponding fine. However, motorists can contest fines if they have valid evidence, while the government will also provide technology-based proof to support enforcement actions.
Technology-Driven Roadworthiness Certification
Fashola highlighted how technology had enhanced VIS services, particularly with the introduction of an online roadworthiness certification system.
– Motorists with existing roadworthiness certificates can now renew them online upon expiration.
– The platform allows users to book appointments, make payments, and schedule vehicle inspections at their convenience.
– Automatic number plate acquisition and verification have also been introduced to maintain accurate vehicle history records.
– For commercial vehicles, the VIS is working with park chairmen to conduct inspections directly at motor parks and garages.
Encouragement for Motorists
Fashola urged motorists to take advantage of the 45 VIS centres across Lagos to ensure their vehicles remain roadworthy. He emphasised that the ultimate goal of the initiative is to enhance road safety, reduce accidents, and ensure compliance with traffic laws across the state.
With the introduction of smart cameras and advanced traffic management systems, Lagos State is taking a proactive approach to improving road safety and ensuring better compliance with traffic regulations.
