Abia Government Intensifies Drive for Safer, More Efficient Transport System

The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a modern, safe, orderly, and efficient transportation system, emphasizing that the vision can only be realized through sustained collaboration among transport operators, unions, regulatory agencies, and key stakeholders.

The government further stated that such cooperation would significantly reduce road crashes, restore public confidence in the sector, and build a transport framework aligned with the broader aspirations of the New Abia agenda.

Speaking during a one-day seminar organized by the Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU), Aba Zone, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu, called on tricycle operators to serve as ambassadors of road safety. Represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transport, Associate Professor Obioma Reuben Nwogbe, the commissioner urged operators to strictly comply with traffic regulations and embrace safe driving practices.

Describing the seminar as a vital platform for acquiring life-saving skills, Ukaegbu encouraged participants to view the training as a pathway to enhanced professional competence rather than a routine exercise. The programme covered practical areas including defensive driving, road safety principles, security awareness, tricycle maintenance, and financial management.

“With this training, the ASTOPU chairman is taking tricycle operators to the next level in terms of safety, security, and operations. It is expected to generate positive behavioral changes among operators, and the government looks forward to seeing measurable improvements in the conduct of every tricycle operator across the state following this training,” he said.

The commissioner further enjoined operators to obey traffic laws, respect other road users, maintain their vehicles regularly, avoid reckless driving, and prioritize the safety of passengers at all times. He expressed appreciation to the organizers, facilitators, security agencies, transport unions, and other partners for their unwavering commitment to promoting professionalism and safety within the transport sector.

Also speaking, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Abayi Division, Mr. Okereke Ogbonnaya Amos, commended the initiative and recommended that such programmes be held regularly. He urged transport operators to strengthen collaboration with security agencies by providing timely intelligence to help tackle crime and other emerging security threats in the state.

The Assistant Commander of Narcotics in charge of Prevention, Sensitization, and Training at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Frank Nwaohamuo, underscored the critical importance of a drug-free lifestyle. He warned that the use of stimulants impairs judgment, alters behavior, and significantly increases the risk of road accidents.

“Drugs distort your sense of judgment and decision-making. Under their influence, you may misjudge distances or speed, endangering both yourself and your passengers. They affect the brain, spinal cord, and the entire reasoning process,” he cautioned.

Similarly, the Unit Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Aba, Uduma Uduma, described the seminar as a strategic effort to promote a safer road environment through education on best driving practices. He urged operators to maintain their tricycles in good condition and strictly comply with traffic rules and regulations at all times.

Earlier, the Chairman of ASTOPU, Comrade Victor Azubuike, noted that the seminar was organized to educate operators on road safety, security awareness, financial management, and other critical aspects of their profession. He expressed optimism that participants would gain improved knowledge of traffic regulations, safe driving techniques, personal health management, and financial planning.

Participants, including Unit Chairman Mr. Chinagorom Azu and Chairman of High Life Cemetery Unit, Pastor Victor Mbah, described the training as highly enlightening. They noted that the programme exposed them to safe driving techniques, the dangers of drug abuse, passenger safety protocols, health insurance options, and security awareness.

The participants also lauded Governor Alex Otti for ongoing road infrastructure improvements across the state and commended the ASTOPU Aba Zone leadership for organizing what they described as the first comprehensive training of its kind for tricycle operators.

The seminar featured lectures on defensive driving, traffic regulations, tricycle maintenance, passenger safety, financial management, and health insurance. The programme also included group discussions and interactive question-and-answer sessions designed to deepen practical understanding among participants.