The Lagos State Government has announced plans to introduce a regulated parking system in 2026, a major step aimed at reducing traffic congestion, promoting discipline among motorists, and restoring order on the state’s busy roads. The initiative will be implemented by the Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) as part of the Sanwo-Olu administration’s ongoing transport reforms.
Lagos Regulated Parking to Begin in 2026
Speaking during LASPA’s 2025 retreat on Friday, the General Manager, Adebisi Adelabu, said the move would introduce structured and well-managed parking zones across the city.
“This is definitely going to be a game-changer. We want to start ensuring that people park responsibly and think of parking before leaving their homes,” Adelabu said.
She explained that the regulated parking system in Lagos would not only improve traffic flow but also boost revenue generation and enhance public safety.
Implementation to Start in Select Areas
According to Adelabu, the initiative will begin in phases across key areas, including Ikoyi, Ikeja, Victoria Island, and Lekki. She noted that signage indicating parking rates would soon be visible in those locations.
“Coming up in about a month or two, you will begin to see the rates in different areas of the city,” she said. “Lagos is very intentional. We are not starting across the state at once.”
The LASPA boss added that the system would be technology-driven, ensuring easy payment, monitoring, and enforcement through digital platforms.
‘Pay-by-Plate’ to Drive the Future of Parking
Adelabu revealed that Lagos aims to introduce a ‘pay-by-plate’ system, where motorists can pay digitally without physical enforcement.
“The future of parking is pay-by-plate,” she said. “You’ll see a sign showing how much to pay and make the payment digitally. If you don’t, you’ll get a ticket via text or email.”
She emphasized that the initiative would reduce parking violations, encourage responsible parking behavior, and create a more sustainable urban environment.
Regulation Over Revenue
While the system is expected to generate income for the state, Adelabu stressed that the main goal is regulation, not revenue.
“In some areas, you will only be able to park for a maximum of three hours,” she explained. “We don’t want people turning the streets into private car parks. While revenue is assured, it’s more about ensuring social change.”
Lagos Transport Commissioner Backs the Plan
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said the initiative could significantly improve productivity and mobility in Lagos if properly implemented.
“Parking issues in Lagos worsen traffic challenges and reduce mobility,” he said. “Effective parking management plays a crucial role in traffic control and transportation efficiency.”
Osiyemi noted that unregulated roadside parking and outdated infrastructure have long hindered Lagos’ traffic management efforts.
Lagos Traffic Woes and Past Attempts
Traffic congestion remains one of Lagos State’s biggest challenges, with motorists spending long hours in gridlock daily. In June, reports described how commuters were stranded for hours in standstill traffic stretching from Otedola Bridge to Ogun State.
This is not the first time LASPA has announced enforcement plans. In July 2025, the agency stated on its website that enforcement against indiscriminate parking would begin on July 28, 2025.
The Lagos regulated parking system, set to begin in 2026, marks a bold step toward easing traffic congestion and improving urban mobility. With a technology-driven approach and structured implementation, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, safer, and more organized Lagos for motorists and commuters alike.
