By Chiazo Ogbolu

The Lagos State Government says it will introduce rail academy to help build human capacity in the sector.

The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, disclosed this at a panel session at the second Lagos Traffic Conference on Tuesday in Lagos.

The panel session is in commemoration of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA’s) Silver Jubilee celebrations.

The anniversary has the theme: “Enhancing Traffic Efficiency and Safety on Lagos Roads: Challenges, Opportunities and Innovations.”

According to Hamzat, the rail academy is where Nigerians can be trained to do various things in the sector.

“It will also ensure that the country stops importing things in the sector, it is solely designed to enable human capital thrive,” he said.

Hamzat said Lagos was improving to be the human capital centre of the world.

This, he said, would be achieved through the state’s 30 years development plan.

On the operational efficiency of LASTMA, Hamzat noted that LASTMA has evolved through the years and has embraced the use of technology.

“LASTMA does not need to pursue vehicle anymore when there are offenders, we have a means of arresting them through the use of technology,” he said.

He urged Lagos residents to embrace the work LASTMA does and see them as partners in progress, stressing that if LASTMA was removed from the roads in a week, it would lead to chaos.

Mr Ayo Olowookere, the Chief Executive Officer, Imperial Homes Mortgage Bank, who spoke on private sector participation in LASTMA activities, said private sector would want to see value for their money.

“The private sector wants to see clarity that comes with precise planning and consistency, for opportunities that they can tap into, like the use of drones,” he said.

Olowookere urged the Lagos State Government to look into establishing the Lagos State Traffic Management Trust Fund to ensure manpower moves.

Also, Mr Babajide Otitoju, Senior Journalist at the Television Continental News, said some problems LASTMA was accused of should be directed to government.

“We need to appreciate the quality of work LASTMA is doing, it is not easy at all.

“Lagos is constantly expanding and for LASTMA to work effectively there is a need to build roads that will ease the movement of vehicles and commuters around the state.

“For LASTMA to be in the eyes of people, there should be constant community engagement,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Edith Bolokor/Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma