Anambra State government has commenced the rebranding of commercial motorcyclists popularly known as Okada riders in the state.
The Commissioner for Transport, Mrs. Patricia Igwebuike stated this during the flag off of the enrollment of motorcyclists into the data base of the State ministry of Transport.
The ceremony took place in Nanka, Anambra state.
Speaking at the occasion, Mrs. Igwebuike said, “this meeting is important and as a means to sensitize and educate motorcyclists on government policies and programmes and to make it known that the ongoing enrollment is free of charge, which after registration, each rider is entitled to identification number and vest”.
According to Mrs Igwebuike, motorcyclists should endeavour to pay the weekly state government levies to avoid penalties. She explained that any registered commercial motorcyclist who pays his due as at when due will be enrolled into the Anambra Health Insurance Scheme.
The Transport commissioner commended the convener of the event, Mr. Emeka Uganeme for the procurement of helmets for motorcyclists in the area and challenged other well-meaning individuals to emulate such deeds.
Safeguarding health
The Chairman of the event, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene urged commercial transporters to always ensure they take care of their health before plying the roads.
The convener of the event, Architect Ugaalwa assured the Commissioner that the community will ensure compliance and key into the state government activities. He also advised for the use of helmets by motorcyclists.
Lectures on safety on roads by men of the Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC) made the highpoints of the event.
Emmanuel Ukoh