TRACE at 21: Agency Reflects on Legacy of Service, Road Safety in Ogun
OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA, Lagos
The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) has celebrated its 21st anniversary, marking more than two decades of service in promoting road safety, traffic management and public enlightenment across the state.
Speaking on the milestone, the Public Relations Officer of TRACE, Babatunde Akinbiyi, described the anniversary as a significant moment for reflection on the agency’s journey, sacrifices and impact on motorists and communities throughout Ogun State.
Akinbiyi noted that the celebration was not merely about the passage of time but about appreciating the progress the agency has made since its establishment.
“The celebration of TRACE at 21 is not just about counting the seconds, minutes, days, weeks, months and years, but about looking back at the journey, the beginning, the sacrifices and the impact this agency has made on our highways, in our communities and in the lives of the motoring public,” he said.
He explained that over the past two decades, TRACE officers have remained committed to maintaining order on the roads and ensuring the safety of motorists despite challenging conditions.
According to him, officers of the agency have continued to demonstrate courage and dedication while carrying out their duties under varying weather conditions and difficult circumstances.
“For 21 years, the men and women of this agency have stood like the Rock of Gibraltar on our roads, under the sun, in the rain and during the harmattan season, ensuring that order is maintained and lives and property are protected,” Akinbiyi said.
He added that TRACE personnel are not just uniformed officers enforcing traffic regulations, but members of the community who have chosen to serve the public with commitment and humility.
“They are not faceless officers; they are our brothers, sisters, neighbours and friends who have chosen to serve with courage, loyalty, patience, humility and respect,” he said.
The spokesperson further emphasised that the agency’s operations extend beyond enforcement to include public education, enlightenment and sensitisation on road safety.
According to him, TRACE’s interventions over the years have helped prevent accidents and save countless lives and property across the state.
“What makes TRACE truly unique is that it goes beyond enforcement. It is also about enlightenment, sensitisation and education, reminding everyone that road safety is a collective responsibility,” he noted.
Reflecting on the agency’s growth, Akinbiyi said TRACE had evolved from a modest institution into a widely recognised symbol of discipline, guidance and service in Ogun State.
“At 21, TRACE has grown into a household name and a brand associated with safety, guidance and responsibility,” he said.
He also paid tribute to officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, acknowledging their sacrifices in the course of protecting lives and property.
“We salute those who paid the supreme sacrifice in the course of duty. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten,” he said.
Akinbiyi further recognised the foresight of the agency’s founding fathers and the dedication of its pioneering staff, including retired officers whose efforts laid the foundation for TRACE’s present achievements.
He expressed optimism that the agency would continue to strengthen partnerships and enhance road safety initiatives in the years ahead.
“May the next chapter bring even greater achievements, stronger partnerships and safer roads for all,” Akinbiyi said.
TRACE was established by the Ogun State Government to regulate traffic, ensure compliance with road safety rules and provide prompt response to road emergencies across the state.
Over the past 21 years, the agency has played a key role in traffic control, accident management and public awareness campaigns aimed at improving safety on Ogun roads.
