Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, flagged off the distribution of 15,000 free reflective jackets to enhance safety for commercial motorcycle riders. The initiative, part of the roadmap for sustainable development 2023-2027, focuses on securing lives and properties. The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Professor Musibau Babatunde, addressed the importance of curbing miscreants posing as motorcycle riders involved in criminal activities.
The reflective jackets, equipped with unique identifiers and barcodes, aim to monitor and regulate commercial motorcycle riders in Oyo State. Each rider is registered with the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency. The first phase of distribution will be closely monitored, with non-compliance punishable.
The governor stressed the strategic pillar of security and emphasized the need for residents’ registration exercises and other initiatives to safeguard citizens.
The governor expressed collaboration with stakeholders and Okada associations, urging riders to adopt the initiative.
Evaluation after distributing 15,000 jackets will determine the need for additional production or potential monetary charges for non-compliance.
Governor Makinde urged sustained cooperation between riders and the government for enhanced security and economic prosperity.
In goodwill messages, the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, and the Chairman of the Oyo State Traffic Management Agency, Major Adesagba Adekola (rtd), emphasized the impact of motorcycle riders on the state’s economy.
They urged riders to adhere to traffic rules for safety, and representatives of transportation stakeholders advocated for a conducive environment for their businesses.
The meeting involved leaders of motorcycle riders from various zones, including Park Management System, Motorcycle Transport Union of Nigeria, MTUN, Amalgamated Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Owners, Repairs and Riders Association of Nigeria, ACOMORAN, among others.
