The Chairman of the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Chief Francis Arhiyor JP, shared positive developments about the Union’s efforts to improve relationships between drivers and passengers since he took office. Represented by the NURTW Secretary, Chief Tony Igwebuike, Chief Arhiyor spoke at the 14th edition of the Journalist Hangout event organized by the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Asaba on November 2, 2024.
Chief Igwebuike emphasized that peaceful coexistence between passengers and drivers has been a priority, despite the challenges in the transport sector. He explained that passengers are encouraged to use approved motor parks, where they benefit from secure boarding, data collection, and regulated fees, avoiding roadside pickups that could compromise their safety.
“We want passengers to enter vehicles from the motor park, where their information is recorded, and costs are more stable,” he said. “Drivers face fuel difficulties, but we aim to prevent unnecessary charges for passengers in these challenging times.”
Chief Arhiyor, he noted, has taken significant steps for the Union, including building an ultra-modern Secretariat in Uvwie and planning a new state council headquarters along Ibusa Road, supported by land provided by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. The new facilities, he believes, will strengthen the Union’s capacity to serve members and improve transport services in Delta State.
Chief Igwebuike also highlighted safety initiatives, including talks with the Delta State Commissioner of Transport on implementing a Radar detection (RD) code system for buses. This system, he explained, will require data recording for all passengers as a security measure and will soon be enforced to improve tracking and safety.
Addressing issues related to vehicle conditions, Chief Igwebuike clarified that non-Union drivers operating without proper mirrors or equipment are typically not NURTW members. “We maintain standards in our parks, ensuring vehicles have necessary safety features like side mirrors,” he explained.
He advised families sending children to school or travelers to prioritize safety by using approved parks, despite potentially higher fees. “At motor parks, we prioritize passenger safety, even if it means slightly higher fares than roadside pickups,” he said.
On the Union’s partnership with the Delta State government, Chief Igwebuike described the relationship as positive and hinted at future job opportunities and support for drivers. “Governor Oborevwori has given us land for our Secretariat, and we’re hopeful for more government support to provide jobs and empower drivers,” he noted.
In response, Delta State NUJ Chairman Comrade Churchill Oyovwe commended the NURTW’s leadership and affirmed the Journalists’ Hangout as a platform for friendly dialogue rather than criticism. He acknowledged the NURTW’s essential role in ensuring safe and accessible transportation for Deltans and urged the Union to monitor fares closely to prevent undue fare increases, especially given recent fuel price hikes.
Comrade Oyovwe noted, “Your efforts contribute greatly to the safety and affordability of transport in Delta State, especially during this busy season, and we appreciate your dedication.” He encouraged the Union to balance vehicle maintenance costs with affordable fares for commuters.
The event underscored the collaborative efforts of the NURTW and the Delta State government to improve transport safety, services, and infrastructure for the benefit of residents.
