The Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) has unveiled plans to introduce a paid parking system on designated roadways across the state, with the rollout scheduled to commence before the end of 2026. This initiative aims to address the persistent issue of disorderly roadside parking that has long contributed to traffic congestion in the bustling commercial hub of Africa.
Adebisi Adelabu, the general manager of LASPA, made the announcement during a meeting with Akeem Dauda, the chairman of Ikeja Local Government Area, along with other council officials. The details were later confirmed through a statement released by Dunkwu Divine, the agency’s Head of Public Affairs.
Under the new On-Street Parking Scheme, a pilot phase will first be implemented in select local government areas, including Ikeja. Adelabu highlighted that the program is designed to bring better organization to parking, enhance traffic circulation, and create job opportunities for local residents. She stated, “This scheme will not only improve parking management but also help decongest our roads and provide employment, especially for those living in the pilot areas.”
The LASPA chief clarified that the authority over parking operations had previously rested with local governments but was transferred to LASPA following a decision by the Conference of the 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas. She noted that local councils would receive benefits in proportion to their level of cooperation and urged them to actively facilitate the scheme’s launch. Adelabu also emphasized the agency’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders and incorporating their input to ensure the program’s success.
In response, Chairman Dauda expressed support for the initiative and pledged the council’s cooperation. He called for robust public awareness campaigns to prepare residents adequately before the system begins.
The state government envisions the paid parking plan as a key component of broader efforts to alleviate traffic snarls and eliminate haphazard parking, particularly in commercial zones like Ikeja, Lagos Island, Surulere, and Apapa. Unregulated parking in these areas has frequently narrowed lanes, disrupted traffic flow, and hampered economic activities. With this new policy, LASPA hopes to restore order and improve mobility across Lagos.