The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a warning to the public, particularly children, teenagers, and young adults, against using rolling skate shoes and other wheeled recreational footwear on public highways. This warning was given due to the grave safety risks associated with the practice. According to LASTMA, the growing trend of using footwear fitted with concealed or retractable wheels on roads meant for vehicular traffic poses a danger to both users and other road users.
The Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department at LASTMA, Mr. Adebayo Taofiq, stated that users of the footwear often attempt to glide alongside moving vehicles, cross busy roads indiscriminately, or manoeuvre through traffic without adequate protective gear or adult supervision. This increases the likelihood of road crashes and severe injuries. The Authority noted that public roads are highly unpredictable environments where vehicles, motorcycles, pedestrians, and other road users interact simultaneously.
LASTMA stressed that using wheeled recreational devices in such settings significantly reduces a user’s ability to react to sudden traffic movements. Unlike designated recreational facilities, public roads have many variables that can lead to accidents. The Authority therefore urged parents, guardians, schools, and caregivers to discourage children and other vulnerable road users from engaging in skating activities on highways, expressways, bridges, service lanes, and other locations where vehicles operate.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, emphasized that road safety is a collective responsibility that requires discipline, vigilance, and respect for the dangers associated with public roads. He stressed that the protection of human life must always take precedence over recreational activities, noting that no form of leisure is worth exposing oneself or others to avoidable danger. Bakare-Oki also appealed to motorists to remain alert, particularly in residential neighbourhoods, estates, and school zones.
LASTMA advised users of rolling skate shoes to confine such activities to designated recreational centres, private compounds, and other safe environments suitable for skating, while also wearing appropriate protective equipment, including helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads. The Authority further urged residents to promptly report dangerous traffic situations, road obstructions, vehicle breakdowns, and crashes through LASTMA’s toll-free emergency short code, 3367.
This will enable swift intervention by traffic management officials. LASTMA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives, promoting responsible road use, and ensuring a safer and more orderly transportation environment across Lagos State. The Authority added that road safety remains a shared civic responsibility requiring the cooperation of all road users.
By working together, LASTMA aims to reduce the risks associated with using rolling skate shoes on public highways and promote a culture of safety and responsibility among road users in Lagos State. The warning serves as a reminder to the public of the importance of prioritizing safety and adhering to regulations that protect lives.
Key points
- LASTMA warns against using rolling skate shoes on Lagos highways due to safety risks.
- The Authority urges users to confine skating activities to designated recreational centres.
- Road safety is a collective responsibility that requires discipline and vigilance.
