Project – Assessment of the factors of congestion and LASTMA control techniques along Lekki-Ajah section of Epe Expressway Lagos.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Traffic congestion is a significant urban challenge, particularly in rapidly growing cities like Lagos, Nigeria. The Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway is a critical corridor that experiences severe congestion, impacting daily commuters and economic activities. This literature review aims to assess the factors contributing to congestion in this area and evaluate the control techniques employed by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA). Understanding these elements is crucial for developing effective strategies to alleviate traffic issues and improve mobility.

Several factors contribute to traffic congestion along the Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway. According to Adebayo and Ojo (2019), rapid urbanization and population growth have led to increased vehicular traffic, overwhelming the existing road infrastructure. Additionally, Olawale et al. (2020) highlight that inadequate public transportation options force many residents to rely on private vehicles, exacerbating congestion. Poor road conditions and frequent roadworks further contribute to traffic delays, as noted by Adeyemi (2018). These factors collectively create a challenging environment for traffic management and necessitate comprehensive solutions.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) employs various techniques to manage traffic congestion along the Lekki-Ajah corridor. As described by Eze and Nwankwo (2021), LASTMA utilizes manual traffic control at key intersections, deploying officers to direct traffic flow during peak hours. Additionally, the agency has implemented traffic signal systems to regulate vehicle movement, although their effectiveness is often hampered by power outages and technical malfunctions (Ogunleye, 2019). LASTMA also engages in public awareness campaigns to educate drivers on road safety and compliance with traffic regulations, as reported by Chukwu (2020).

The effectiveness of LASTMA’s control techniques has been a subject of debate among researchers and policymakers. According to a study by Okafor and Adekunle (2022), while manual traffic control can provide immediate relief during peak periods, it is not a sustainable long-term solution due to its reliance on human resources. Furthermore, the study highlights that traffic signal systems require regular maintenance and upgrades to function optimally, a challenge given the limited resources available to LASTMA. Public awareness campaigns have shown some success in improving driver behavior, but their impact on overall congestion levels remains limited (Ibrahim, 2021).

Comparing LASTMA’s techniques with global best practices reveals potential areas for improvement. In cities like Singapore and London, advanced traffic management systems, including real-time traffic monitoring and adaptive signal control, have proven effective in reducing congestion (Tan & Lim, 2018). Implementing similar technologies in Lagos could enhance LASTMA’s capacity to manage traffic flow more efficiently. Additionally, investing in public transportation infrastructure, as seen in Curitiba, Brazil, could provide viable alternatives to private vehicle use, thereby reducing congestion (Ribeiro & Santos, 2019).

Addressing traffic congestion along the Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway requires a multifaceted approach that considers the underlying factors and evaluates the effectiveness of current control techniques. While LASTMA’s efforts provide some relief, there is a need for more sustainable and technologically advanced solutions. By learning from global best practices and investing in infrastructure improvements, Lagos can enhance its traffic management capabilities and improve the quality of life for its residents. Further research and collaboration among stakeholders are essential to develop and implement effective strategies for congestion mitigation.

• Statement of the Problem

The Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway in Lagos has become one of the most congested traffic corridors in the city due to rapid urban growth, an increase in vehicle ownership, and a lack of comprehensive traffic management systems. As a vital transportation route linking the Lekki Peninsula to the rest of Lagos, this section serves as the primary road for commuters, tourists, and freight. However, despite its importance, the area experiences severe traffic congestion, especially during peak periods, with vehicles often coming to a standstill. This congestion not only results in lost productivity, increased fuel consumption, and environmental pollution but also heightens the level of stress and discomfort for road users, leading to a decline in the overall quality of life in the region. Identifying the key factors contributing to this persistent congestion is crucial for developing effective traffic management strategies that can improve the flow of traffic and mitigate the negative impacts on road users.

Several factors contribute to the worsening congestion along the Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway, including rapid population growth, urban sprawl, and inadequate infrastructure. Over the past few years, the Lekki Peninsula has witnessed a significant rise in residential estates, commercial developments, and leisure centers. This urban expansion has led to a dramatic increase in the number of vehicles on the road, which the existing road network, especially the Lekki-Ajah stretch, was not designed to handle (Ibitoye & Oyedepo, 2020). In addition to the heavy traffic from private vehicles, there is also an influx of informal public transportation services, such as commercial buses (Danfo) and motorcycle riders (Okadas), which exacerbate congestion and create a chaotic driving environment. The road, which is often narrow with limited lanes, struggles to accommodate the growing traffic volume, further contributing to the traffic gridlock.

The problem is compounded by a lack of efficient traffic control measures and enforcement strategies along the corridor. Although the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has been tasked with regulating traffic flow, their ability to effectively manage congestion has been limited by several challenges, including insufficient manpower, inadequate infrastructure, and inadequate public awareness (Adedeji & Akpan, 2020). While LASTMA deploys officers to control traffic at key intersections, the scale of the traffic problems often overwhelms their efforts. Furthermore, enforcement is frequently hindered by factors such as non-compliance with traffic rules, illegal parking, and the activities of street vendors, which further obstruct the flow of traffic and cause delays. This inadequate enforcement has raised concerns about the overall effectiveness of LASTMA’s operations in addressing the root causes of traffic congestion along this stretch of the Epe Expressway.

Another significant issue is the inefficient public transportation system and the lack of coordinated efforts between different transport agencies. The absence of dedicated bus lanes, combined with the growing number of ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt, has contributed to a situation where private cars, commercial buses, and motorcycles all compete for space on the same narrow roads. Although the Lagos State Government has initiated projects to improve the public transport system, such as the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, the integration of these systems with the existing road network remains inadequate (Alabi & Adebiyi, 2019). As a result, commuters often face difficulties in finding efficient and affordable public transport options, forcing many to rely on private cars, which further intensifies congestion. This lack of effective public transportation planning exacerbates the problem, making it harder for traffic management authorities like LASTMA to alleviate congestion.

Despite the numerous efforts by LASTMA to enforce traffic rules and improve road safety, the persistent traffic congestion along the Lekki-Ajah section continues to strain the transportation system. The question arises: are the current traffic control techniques sufficient, or do they require reformation? There are indications that traditional enforcement methods alone are inadequate for addressing the growing scale of the traffic problems in Lagos. Studies have shown that while LASTMA officers can manage minor traffic violations, they often struggle to address more systemic issues, such as the design and capacity of the road network or the role of informal transport operators in clogging up traffic (Akinbo, 2021). Furthermore, traffic management often remains reactive rather than proactive, focusing on controlling congestion after it has occurred rather than implementing long-term solutions to prevent it.

Given the critical nature of traffic congestion in this part of Lagos, it is imperative to assess the factors driving the problem and evaluate the effectiveness of LASTMA’s control techniques in addressing these factors. This research seeks to identify the underlying causes of congestion along the Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway and examine the strengths and weaknesses of current traffic control measures implemented by LASTMA. It will also explore potential solutions, including improvements in infrastructure, public transportation, and smarter traffic management strategies, to reduce congestion and enhance the quality of life for commuters in the area. The study aims to provide actionable insights that can inform policy decisions, ensuring more efficient traffic management and contributing to the long-term sustainability of the urban transport system in Lagos.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to assess the factors of congestion and LASTMA control techniques along Lekki-Ajah section of Epe Expressway Lagos. The specific objectives are:

1. Identify the main factors contributing to congestion in the Lekki-Ajah section of Epe Expressway.
2. Evaluate the effectiveness of current LASTMA control techniques in managing traffic flow in the area.
3. Analyze the impact of congestion on travel times and overall road safety in the study area.
4. Propose recommendations for improving traffic management and reducing congestion along the Epe Expressway.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What are the main factors contributing to congestion in the Lekki-Ajah section of Epe Expressway?
2. How effective are the current LASTMA control techniques in managing traffic flow in the area?
3. What is the impact of congestion on travel times and overall road safety in the study area?
4. What recommendations can be proposed for improving traffic management and reducing congestion along the Epe Expressway?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: LASTMA control techniques does not affect the management of traffic flow in Lekki-Ajah area.

H1: LASTMA control techniques affect the management of traffic flow in Lekki-Ajah area.

1.6. Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in its potential to contribute valuable insights into the growing problem of traffic congestion along the Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway in Lagos, one of the most critical and congested corridors in the city. As Lagos continues to experience rapid urbanization and population growth, understanding the underlying causes of congestion on this key arterial road is crucial for developing more effective traffic management strategies. By identifying the factors that contribute to traffic congestion, such as inadequate road infrastructure, the influx of vehicles, and the lack of efficient public transportation options, this study will provide a foundation for targeted interventions that can improve traffic flow and reduce delays. The findings could influence policymakers, urban planners, and transportation authorities in developing solutions that enhance mobility and ease the burden of congestion for commuters.

This research is significant because it will evaluate the effectiveness of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) in managing the traffic situation along the Lekki-Ajah section. LASTMA plays a critical role in regulating traffic flow, enforcing traffic laws, and ensuring road safety in Lagos. However, despite its efforts, traffic congestion in key areas, particularly along the Lekki-Ajah stretch, remains a persistent issue. This study will assess the strengths and limitations of LASTMA’s current control techniques, such as road enforcement, illegal parking management, and traffic directing at major junctions. By critically analyzing the performance of LASTMA in this area, the study will provide recommendations for improving its operational capacity, optimizing personnel deployment, and implementing more innovative traffic control systems. The results could serve as a useful guide for enhancing LASTMA’s overall effectiveness in addressing congestion in other parts of Lagos.

Another key contribution of this study is its potential to influence urban transportation policy and planning in Lagos. As the city grapples with increasing traffic congestion, there is a pressing need for sustainable and long-term solutions. This research will identify how infrastructure deficiencies, the rapid growth of informal settlements, and inadequate public transportation systems contribute to the congestion problem. By understanding these factors, urban planners and policymakers can prioritize infrastructure development, such as road expansion, the introduction of dedicated bus lanes, and the integration of different transport modes into a cohesive system. Additionally, recommendations from the study could help optimize the existing public transportation networks, including the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, ensuring that they are better suited to handle the growing demand for commuting services. Ultimately, the study’s insights will guide investments in sustainable transportation solutions, contributing to a more efficient, accessible, and environmentally friendly urban transport system in Lagos.

The study is also significant in that it addresses the social and economic consequences of traffic congestion in Lagos. The persistent gridlock along the Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway has far-reaching impacts on the daily lives of commuters, affecting their productivity, health, and overall well-being. Traffic delays often lead to wasted hours on the road, resulting in increased stress levels and decreased work output. In addition, prolonged exposure to traffic congestion contributes to environmental pollution, with vehicles emitting harmful gases that degrade air quality. The economic cost of congestion in terms of lost time, fuel consumption, and reduced worker efficiency is substantial. By highlighting the social and economic costs of traffic congestion, this research will underline the urgency of finding effective solutions to reduce gridlock and improve the quality of life for Lagos residents.

From a practical standpoint, this study is significant because it will provide actionable recommendations that can be implemented at both the governmental and community levels. The findings will be relevant not only to government agencies such as the Lagos State Ministry of Transport and LASTMA but also to private sector stakeholders involved in transportation and infrastructure development. This research will offer insights into how public-private partnerships can be leveraged to improve road infrastructure and implement innovative traffic management technologies. For example, intelligent traffic systems (ITS) and real-time traffic monitoring could be integrated into the existing traffic management framework to reduce congestion. Furthermore, the study will advocate for stronger enforcement of traffic regulations and the introduction of congestion pricing or road pricing as mechanisms to discourage excessive vehicle use during peak hours. These practical recommendations can be used as a blueprint for making immediate improvements to the Lekki-Ajah corridor and other similarly congested areas in Lagos.

Finally, the significance of this study extends beyond the Lekki-Ajah section, offering broader implications for other cities in Africa that are experiencing rapid urbanization and traffic challenges. Lagos is often regarded as a model for other African megacities grappling with similar issues related to congestion and traffic management. The findings of this research, therefore, have the potential to inform transportation policies in other urban centers, such as Nairobi, Accra, and Cairo, where similar factors are contributing to traffic gridlock. By sharing the lessons learned from this study, it is possible to promote best practices in traffic management, urban planning, and transportation policy across the continent. In this way, the study contributes not only to addressing local congestion but also to the broader discourse on sustainable urban mobility in developing countries.

1.7. Scope of the Study

The study examines Assessment of the factors of congestion and LASTMA control techniques along Lekki-Ajah section of Epe Expressway Lagos.

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

1. Assessment: Assessment refers to the systematic process of evaluating or examining something in order to understand its nature, quality, or effectiveness. In the context of this study, assessment involves the careful evaluation of various factors contributing to traffic congestion along the Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway and the effectiveness of the traffic control techniques implemented by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA). The aim is to gather data, analyze the situation, and provide insights that can inform decision-making and interventions.
2. Factors: Factors are the various elements, conditions, or causes that contribute to a particular outcome or phenomenon. In the context of traffic congestion, factors could include infrastructural limitations (e.g., road design and capacity), increased vehicle volume, urbanization, population growth, inefficient public transportation systems, and traffic behavior (e.g., illegal parking or road blockages). Understanding these factors is essential for diagnosing the root causes of congestion and developing effective solutions.
3. Congestion: Congestion refers to the overcrowding or excessive accumulation of vehicles or people in a specific area, leading to a significant reduction in the movement or flow of traffic. In traffic terms, congestion occurs when the number of vehicles on a road exceeds the road’s capacity, resulting in slower travel times, increased travel delays, and reduced efficiency of the transportation network. In the case of the Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway, congestion is a persistent issue, especially during peak hours, due to the high volume of vehicles, inadequate infrastructure, and poor traffic management.
4. LASTMA: LASTMA (Lagos State Traffic Management Authority) is a government agency in Lagos State, Nigeria, responsible for managing traffic flow, ensuring road safety, and enforcing traffic laws and regulations on the state’s roads. LASTMA’s primary functions include controlling traffic, reducing traffic accidents, managing congestion, directing vehicles at busy intersections, and ensuring the compliance of drivers with road safety rules. It plays a vital role in maintaining order on Lagos roads, including the Lekki-Ajah section of the Epe Expressway, where traffic congestion is a major concern.
5. Control Techniques: Control techniques refer to the methods, strategies, or interventions used to regulate, manage, or mitigate a specific issue or challenge. In the context of traffic management, control techniques are the actions taken by traffic management authorities like LASTMA to address congestion and ensure the smooth flow of traffic. These techniques may include road traffic enforcement (such as ticketing or towing illegally parked vehicles), the use of traffic signals and signs, real-time monitoring of traffic conditions, the implementation of intelligent traffic management systems, and public education campaigns on safe driving practices. Control techniques also encompass infrastructure improvements such as the creation of dedicated lanes for buses or the development of traffic management centers. The effectiveness of these techniques is crucial for addressing congestion in heavily trafficked areas like Lekki-Ajah.

Project – Assessment of the factors of congestion and LASTMA control techniques along Lekki-Ajah section of Epe Expressway Lagos.