By Fadda Bakish
The Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) ushered in a new leadership chapter with its incoming Board Chairman, Thomas Mustapha Lahai, on February 14th, 2025. The Kissy Road headquarters, brimming with energy and enthusiasm, became the epicenter of excitement as Thomas Mustapha Lahai, donned in immaculate white attire and a distinguished traditional African cap, was welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honor by the Traffic Wardens Corps, symbolizing the occasion’s significance.
The transition, which unfolded seamlessly under the guidance of the Company Secretary, Abu Bakarr Sheriff Esq., marked a pivotal moment for the SLRSA, as it bids farewell to its outgoing Chairman and embraced a new leader poised to chart a course toward progress, efficiency and impactful road safety management. This moment, imbued with optimism, represented a collective step forward as the Authority anticipates a brighter future under the stewardship of the experienced Thomas Mustapha Lahai.
Reverend Smart Senessie, Executive Director of SLRSA, spoke passionately about the Authority’s foundational role in complementing the Sierra Leone Police’s efforts in traffic management. He lauded the Authority’s key contributions to facilitating the free movement of citizens and its ongoing community programs aimed at enhancing public safety.
With reverence, he highlighted Thomas Mustapha Lahai’s credentials, noting the tremendous value his extensive experience as a retired police officer would bring in addressing the multifaceted challenges of traffic management, strengthening the institution’s operational framework and enhancing the Authority’s capacity for tackling the nation’s growing road safety needs.
In his inaugural address, Chairman Thomas Mustapha Lahai reflected on the breadth of his distinguished career, pledging to use his wealth of expertise to foster positive change within the SLRSA. Drawing upon his legacy as an Assistant Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police, Thomas Mustapha Lahai expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to serve in this new capacity. He reaffirmed his commitment to aligning his leadership with President Bio’s transformative Big Five Changer Agenda, focusing on vital sectors such as Infrastructure, Innovation, Technology, Human Capital Development, Youth Employment and the pressing need for systemic reforms in public service architecture. He implored the staff to embrace professionalism, integrity and operational excellence, warning against the dangers of corruption and stressing the importance of collaboration, discipline and a shared commitment to organizational success.
Chairman Thomas Mustapha Lahai’s vision for the future was clear: the SLRSA must prioritize the creation of a cohesive, productive and transparent work environment where communication and teamwork are key. He urged staff to rise above any negative perceptions and to demonstrate their collective resolve to elevate the reputation and effectiveness of the Authority. His call to action was one of unity, encouraging all to contribute to the greater goal of enhancing road safety and regulatory compliance across the nation.
The event also marked a significant moment in Thomas Mustapha Lahai’s journey, as he was honored with an award from Journalists Without Borders, recognizing his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the growth and success of Sierra Leone. This accolade underscored his stellar reputation and set high expectations for his tenure as Chairman, marking him as a figure of integrity and accountability.
In a show of solidarity, Madam Hassanatu J. Bangura, a Director at SLRSA, warmly welcomed Thomas Mustapha Lahai expressing her confidence in the Staff and Management’s readiness to work in concert with the new leadership. She assured him of their unwavering support, underscoring the shared vision for the Authority’s future and the commitment to driving the agenda of road safety, innovation and public service delivery.
With the SLRSA’s poise to embark on a new phase under Thomas Mustapha Lahai’s leadership, it is expected to confront the challenges ahead with renewed vigor. The core values of professionalism, collaboration and accountability will undoubtedly define the Authority’s path forward. With a renewed emphasis on innovation, operational excellence and service quality, the SLRSA is set to transform into a beacon of road safety and regulatory integrity in Sierra Leone, ready to steer the nation toward a safer, more efficient future.
