Lagos State Government has expanded its smart transport initiatives by partnering with Huawei Technologies to deploy four new Intelligent Transport System (ITS) sites across key locations. Announcing the development at a press briefing, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, stated that the installations would enhance traffic management and road safety. The new ITS sites are divided into two categories: e-police sites for detecting traffic violations, and CheckPoint sites for speed monitoring. These additions complement existing traffic technologies, including Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, as part of efforts to curb road infractions and improve mobility in the state.
The checkpoint sites have been set up at Nitel on Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, where the speed limit is 60 km/h, and at Alapere, with an 80 km/h limit. Meanwhile, e-police sites have been installed at Nurudeen Olowopopo Road, and Allen Avenue Junction, featuring high-definition cameras capable of identifying offences such as lane discipline, illegal U-turns, and running red lights. These systems aim to enforce compliance with traffic regulations, ensuring safer roads for motorists and pedestrians. The initiative aligns with Lagos’ broader ambition of becoming a smart city by leveraging digital solutions to enhance urban mobility and reduce congestion.
Public-private partnerships play a role in tackling transport challenges.
Huawei’s involvement in the project is part of its ongoing Investment in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure. The Technology firm has previously collaborated with the Lagos State Government on various projects, including the deployment of a high-speed wireless government campus network using Huawei’s AirEngine Wi-Fi 6 technology. By integrating ITS solutions into Lagos’ transport framework, the company continues to strengthen its presence in Nigeria’s technology and Infrastructure sectors. The latest ITS deployment is expected to improve traffic flow and provide real-time data for more effective road management.
Beyond improving road safety, this initiative highlights the role of public-private partnerships in tackling Lagos’ transport challenges. As Africa’s most populous city, Lagos struggles with congestion and reckless driving, leading to economic losses and frequent accidents. By adopting advanced technology, the state hopes to build a more efficient transport network. However, technology alone is not enough. Expanding infrastructure, improving public transport, and ensuring proper urban planning are equally important for lasting progress.
Strict enforcement and public cooperation will determine success.
Furthermore, the success of the ITS programme will depend on strict enforcement and public cooperation. While technology enhances monitoring, meaningful change requires consistent penalties for violations. Weak enforcement has hindered past initiatives, and without strict adherence to the law, the impact of these systems may be limited. Authorities must also ensure regular maintenance and updates to keep pace with the city’s needs. Public awareness campaigns will be key to fostering compliance, ensuring the system drives real behavioural change rather than just surveillance.
As Lagos advances its smart transport agenda, concerns over Data Privacy and system reliability must be addressed. AI-powered enforcement and high-definition cameras raise questions about Data Protection and ethical use. Without strong safeguards, there is a risk of misuse or unauthorised access, which could undermine public trust. Clear regulations and transparency will be crucial to ensuring that data is used strictly for traffic management. Additionally, unreliable technology could weaken confidence in the system. Frequent failures or enforcement errors may lead to scepticism, reducing its effectiveness. Regular maintenance and public awareness will be key to sustaining its impact.
Related Article: Lagos leads the charge in electric mobility
Ultimately, the Lagos-Huawei partnership marks a shift towards technology-driven transport, but digital solutions alone cannot fix the system. Smart transport must be complemented by better roads, improved public transport, and stronger law enforcement. While ITS enhances monitoring, it will be ineffective if road conditions remain poor and alternative transport options are inadequate. If well-executed, these initiatives could serve as a model for other Nigerian cities. With sustained investment and strategic planning, Lagos has the potential to set a new standard for urban mobility.