To ensure sanity on Nigerian roads and safeguard the lives of road users, the Rivers State Government says there was need for better orientation for vehicle owners and drivers within the state.

Secretary to the State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo said this when the new Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Rivers State, Corps Marshall Umar Galadunci paid him a courtesy visit in Port Harcourt today.

“We need to work together to ensure there is adequate orientation and sanity on our roads. We still find drivers who park on the road, leaving their vehicles on the road to go about their businesses or carry passengers without considering other road users. This is why Government has from time to time set up task force to ensure drivers obey extant laws. 

Dr Danagogo, in a statement by his media aide, Julie Masi, noted that the State Governor, Nyesom Wike, had recently provided enabling resources such as Hilux vehicles, accommodation and necessary logistics to enable the state command begin the issuance of car plate numbers for vehicle owners in Rivers state. 

Responding, the new State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Corps Marshall Umar Galadunci thanked the State Government for its readiness to always work with the FRSC and provide necessary logistics for the command.

The State Corps Commander said during his short stay in office since arriving the state, he has noted that many drivers in the state do not have valid drivers’ license.

“If not for the situation of COVID-19 lockdown, my plan was to begin immediate enforcement of driver’s license ownership for eligible drivers. I assure you that it will be implemented after this period” he said.

He thanked the Government for the provision of the five brand new JAC Hilux vehicles stating that not many sector commands are enjoying such support from their state government; and promised to boost the state’s revenue through the state sector command.