The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has organised a two-day trauma-informed care workshop for its principal officers as part of activities marking the 2026 International Mental Health Awareness Month.
Eko Hot News reports that the workshop was held at the LASTMA Training Institute in Oshodi in collaboration with Professor Akindotun Meiro, founder of the African Trauma Care Alliance (ATCA).
The programme was themed “Restoring Minds and Building Trauma-Informed Communities.” It focused on improving emotional intelligence, psychological wellness and understanding of traumatic stress among officers.
Speaking at the event, LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, stressed the importance of mental health awareness for officers working in stressful and emotionally demanding environments.
He explained that LASTMA personnel regularly face traumatic situations, including fatal road accidents, violent confrontations with motorists, rescue operations and environmental hazards.
According to him, the agency considered it necessary to provide trauma-informed support systems that would strengthen emotional resilience and improve officers’ overall wellbeing.
Bakare-Oki stated that the workshop was also part of efforts to improve workplace productivity and equip officers with better coping strategies and empathetic leadership skills.
He commended Professor Meiro, mental health professionals and advocacy groups for supporting initiatives aimed at promoting emotional wellness and institutional resilience.
During her presentation, Professor Meiro disclosed that one out of every three people globally experiences a mental health condition during their lifetime.
She identified trauma as one of the leading causes of mental health challenges affecting millions of individuals worldwide.
The mental health expert explained that economic hardship, political instability, kidnapping, domestic violence, communal conflicts and gender-based violence continue to leave deep emotional and psychological scars on victims.
Professor Meiro further warned that untreated trauma could lead to severe health complications, including cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune disorders and prolonged emotional distress.
She added that emotional wellbeing remains closely connected to physical health, making access to quality mental healthcare services extremely important in workplaces and communities.
The workshop also enlightened participants on how trauma can negatively affect productivity, relationships and social stability when left untreated.
Facilitators at the event urged organisations and government institutions to prioritise mental health awareness and create supportive environments for emotional healing.
Professor Meiro also highlighted the impact of the annual Traumatic Stress Awareness Walk organised by the Jars Education Group in partnership with ATCA and international organisations.
According to her, the initiative has grown into a global advocacy movement supporting trauma survivors and promoting mental wellness across Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Participants described the workshop as timely and impactful, noting that trauma remains treatable when societies intentionally build safe and compassionate support systems.
They stressed the need for empathy, open conversations and emotional support structures capable of helping victims recover from traumatic experiences.
The event concluded with renewed calls on governments, healthcare professionals, educators and community leaders to intensify mental health advocacy across society.
Stakeholders also appealed for stronger awareness campaigns aimed at reducing stigma, encouraging emotional recovery and restoring hope to individuals living with traumatic stress.
The workshop formed part of broader efforts by LASTMA to promote staff welfare, emotional wellness and improved service delivery across Lagos State.
