The Lagos State Government has said it is not imposing parking fees on churches or worshippers for parking on streets around religious institutions, rather it is implementing the Lagos State Parking Policy to mitigate parking-induced traffic congestion across the state.
A statement signed by the General Manager, Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA), Mrs. Adebisi Adelabu said it has become expedient to debunk a recent false social media post regarding the parking charges for churches and worshippers in Lagos State.
According to her, the post incorrectly stated that “Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) on Saturday announced it will from October 2024 charge churches and worshippers in Lagos state, who parked vehicles on designated streets around places of worship”.
In clarifying the matter, LASPA emphasised that the information is inaccurate and does not reflect the true intent of its communication. Like many other major cities worldwide facing similar challenges, Lagos is experiencing a high demand for parking spaces that exceeds the available supply. Therefore, we are adopting a regulated on-street parking model to better manage parking resources efficiently.
Earlier this year, the Governor approved the introduction of regulated on-street parking, which was announced during a stakeholders forum held on February 14, 2024, at the Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja.
As part of our efforts to inform stakeholders, including religious organisations who were adequately represented at the forum, about the upcoming implementation in October, LASPA communicated with umbrella bodies representing these groups. One of such correspondences was referenced in a news release making the rounds.
It is important to clarify that no specific religious group is being singled out by this policy. We aim to ensure that all stakeholders are informed and prepared for the implementation of the regulated on-street parking scheme.
Additionally, the Lagos State Government has designated and lane-marked suitable roads for on-street parking across major zones such as Ikeja, Surulere, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Lekki, creating approximately 1800 additional parking slots.
The communication sent to religious institutions serves to notify them of their respective roles and the financial aspects of utilising these designated parking lots. The management of these facilities will be overseen by concessionaires under the regulation of the Lagos State Parking Authority.
LASPA remains committed to improving traffic flow and parking management in Lagos State through transparent and equitable measures that benefit all residents and visitors alike.
For further inquiries, the statement urged Lagosians to contact LASPA on call 02-01-2275230 or 02-01-2275231. Or visit its office at 36b Sasegbon Street, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, or through the website: www.laspa.lg.gov.ng.