Lagos partners Foundation to boost road safety awareness

The Lagos State Government has partnered with children’s educational brand Lumi to promote road safety awareness among schoolchildren through storytelling, practical demonstrations and interactive learning sessions aimed at raising a new generation of responsible road users.

The initiative, which took place at St. Saviour’s School, Ikoyi, brought together pupils, educators and transport officials in an engaging programme designed to teach children safe road practices, public transportation awareness and responsible travel behaviour from an early age.

At the centre of the event was Pelumi Nubi, founder of the Lumi initiative, Lagos State Tourism Ambassador and the first woman to drive solo from London to Lagos.

Nubi captivated the pupils with the story of “Lumi,” a brave little purple car whose adventures were used to communicate vital lessons about safety, courage and resilience.

Nubi recounted her 74-day journey across Europe and Africa, describing how determination, preparation and a strong commitment to safety helped her navigate through countries including France, Spain, Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal, Ghana and Benin before eventually arriving in Lagos.

The children were also introduced to Lagos’ evolving transport network, including the Red and Blue Rail Lines, ferry services and road transport systems, helping them better understand how the state’s transportation infrastructure functions.

On his part, the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, stressed the importance of introducing road safety education at an early stage of a child’s development.

According to him, “The future of road safety starts with education. When children understand safety awareness and responsibility from a young age, they become better road users and responsible citizens.”

Osiyemi noted that beyond reducing accidents, road safety education helps to build discipline and civic responsibility among young people.

He therefore called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, schools and private organisations to ensure that road safety messages are delivered in ways children can easily understand and retain.

“We need more initiatives and partnerships that communicate these important lessons in formats children can relate to, enjoy and remember. Education remains one of the most effective tools for creating lasting behavioural change,” he said.

For Nubi, the Lumi project goes beyond transportation awareness. She explained that the initiative was established to tell authentic African stories while encouraging children to dream beyond perceived limitations.

She added that the Lumi brand is expanding beyond books into toys, animation and other educational platforms that can inspire children through engaging storytelling and relatable African experiences.

She said, “Lumi was born from the need for our stories to be told, especially within the continent. We want children to know that they can be small but mighty and that exploration is possible for them.

“Our goal is to create content that empowers children, builds confidence and shows them that their dreams are achievable regardless of where they come from.”

One of the highlights of the programme was an interactive road safety pledge session during which pupils publicly committed to stopping, looking and listening before crossing roads, wearing seat belts and avoiding unsafe behaviour while travelling.

Many of the children described the experience as both educational and inspiring. A Year Six pupil, Nimi Popoola, said Nubi’s story taught her the value of courage and perseverance.

“I learnt that no matter how difficult something may seem, you should keep believing in yourself and continue working towards your dreams,” she said.

Another pupil, Tavenilo Dania, said the presentation encouraged him to remain focused despite criticism or discouragement from others. “The story showed me that I should never give up and should not listen to people who say I cannot achieve something,” he said.

Deputy Headteacher for Storytelling and Operations at St. Saviour’s School, Mrs Dolapo Akinseye, described the programme as a powerful learning experience capable of shaping the aspirations of young learners.

“Pelumi’s journey from London to Lagos is truly remarkable. It demonstrates resilience, courage and determination. Experiences like this inspire children to think bigger, challenge themselves and pursue ambitious goals,” she said.