The Abia State Government has called on commercial tricycle operators across the Aba Zone to embrace a stronger culture of road safety by complying with traffic regulations and adopting responsible driving habits.
The appeal was made during a one-day capacity-building seminar organised for members of the Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU), with the programme focusing on improving safety, security and professionalism among operators.
Training Designed to Build Skills and Save Lives
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, encouraged participants to treat the seminar as an opportunity to gain practical knowledge that could protect lives and improve the quality of transport services in the state.
Represented by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Transport, Associate Professor Obioma Reuben Nwogbe, the commissioner said the government expects tricycle operators to become role models for safe transportation rather than viewing the exercise as just another routine gathering.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Modern Transport System
According to the commissioner, the administration of Governor Alex Otti remains committed to developing a transportation network that is safe, organised and efficient.
He explained that achieving this vision requires active collaboration among transport unions, operators, regulatory bodies and other relevant stakeholders.
Such cooperation, he noted, would contribute significantly to reducing road accidents, improving public confidence and supporting the state’s vision of a modern transportation system.
Seminar Covers Safety, Security and Business Management
Organisers revealed that the training programme extends beyond road safety to equip operators with broader professional skills.
Topics discussed include defensive driving techniques, vehicle maintenance, security awareness, financial management and other operational practices designed to improve the standard of commercial tricycle services across Abia.
Officials expressed confidence that the knowledge gained would enhance both safety and efficiency within the sector.
Security Agencies Call for Continued Education
The Divisional Police Officer of Abayi Division, CSP Okereke Amos, described the seminar as a timely initiative and urged organisers to make the programme a regular event.
He stressed that tricycle operators could play a valuable role in strengthening public security by providing timely and accurate information to law enforcement agencies whenever suspicious activities are observed.
According to him, continuous education would benefit both the transport sector and the wider community.
NDLEA Warns Against Drug Abuse Among Operators
Representatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) also addressed participants during the seminar.
Speaking on behalf of the state commander, Assistant Commander of Narcotics Frank Nwaohamuo advised operators to stay away from illicit drugs, noting that drug-free driving remains essential for preventing accidents and protecting passengers.
He said responsible behaviour behind the wheel begins with making healthy personal choices.
FRSC Highlights Importance of Vehicle Maintenance
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) also used the occasion to reinforce the importance of road discipline.
Unit Commander Uduma Uduma encouraged operators to keep their tricycles in good mechanical condition while observing all traffic laws.
He noted that proper maintenance and adherence to road regulations are critical to creating a safer environment for all road users.
Union Says Programme Will Improve Industry Standards
Chairman of the Abia State Tricycle Operators Union, Comrade Victor Azubuike, explained that the seminar was organised to equip members with the knowledge needed to carry out their duties safely and responsibly.
He said the initiative reflects the union’s determination to improve operational standards while promoting safer roads across Aba and the wider state.
Participants Praise Training and Government Road Improvements
Many of the tricycle operators who attended the seminar expressed satisfaction with the lessons delivered during the programme.
Some participants, including Unit Chairman Chinagorom Azu and High Life Cemetery Unit Chairman Pastor Victor Mbah, said they gained valuable knowledge on safe driving, passenger protection, health insurance, road security and the dangers of drug abuse.
They also commended Governor Alex Otti for ongoing road infrastructure improvements across Abia State and applauded the ASTOPU Aba Zone leadership for organising what they described as an informative and impactful training programme.
