FCTA trains dispatch riders, seeks end to accidents on Abuja roads

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has trained dispatch riders on safety measures to curb avoidable accidents involving motorcycles on Abuja roads.

Dr Chinedu Elechi, Mandate Secretary, FCT Transportation Secretariat, during the training in Abuja on Thursday, said that the move was necessary following the rising cases of accidents involving motorcycles.

Elechi said that the development was largely due to the non-compliance to basic traffic laws and work pressure.

He urged the dispatch riders to make personal commitment at contributing to safer roads by fostering a culture of professionalism in the delivery sector.

“As the head of the FCT Transportation Secretariat, I am fully aware of the increasing risks faced by delivery riders on our roads.

“Today’s workshop is a strategic step in addressing these challenges and equipping the riders with the necessary tools to stay safe,” he said.

According to him, the broader vision of FCT transportation system is to ensure that all road users, irrespective of the means of transportation, can navigate the roads safely.

The mandate secretary said that FCTA had designed a Public Transport Management Scheme, to regulate and standardise transport operations, through digital solutions, training, and vehicle certification.

“We believe that through collaborative efforts like this, we can create a more secure and organised transport system that benefits everyone,” he said.

Elechi noted that the increasing growth of delivery services within the FCT was a clear indication of how essential the sector has become to the urban economy.

“Whether it is the delivery of food, parcels, or essential goods, riders play an indispensable role in ensuring that businesses thrive, and the needs of residents are met efficiently.

“However, this vital role also comes with its unique set of challenges, particularly looking at the safety of their operations on our roads,” he said.

Earlier, Dr Abdullateef Bello, Director, Department of Road Traffic Services, FCTA, equally noted that dispatch riders were fast becoming an integral part of the FCT mobility ecosystem.

Bello said that with the growth of e-commerce and the demand for swift deliveries, riders have been playing critical roles in ensuring that small parcel goods and services were delivered efficiently across the FCT.

“However, we have equally recorded increased risks on our roads, particularly for motorcycle riders who are often exposed to traffic hazards, accidents, and other safety concerns,” he said.

The director said that the theme of the workshop, “Empowering Riders for Safe Delivery Journeys”, was designed to ensure that dispatch riders have the requisite skills, information and support to navigate their daily work in a safe, secure, and responsible manner.

He added that the workshop was not only to raise awareness but also to provide practical tips on road safety, traffic regulations, and defensive riding techniques that would keep riders safe on the roads.

On her part, Ms Ewoma Jerry-Ogeme of the Public Policy Specialist West Africa-Bolt, said that the FCT public transportation regulatory reform had led to positive changes in the territory’s transport ecosystem.

She said that Bolt has been a proud partner, advocating for regulations that promote operational sustainability and ease of doing business.

Also, Mr Essien Etuk, Chairman, Association of Abuja Logistics Operators, commended DRTS for the efforts to educate and empower riders with the knowledge and skills necessary to stay safe on the roads.

“As an association, we commit to supporting initiatives that promote road safety and the well-being of our members,” Etuk said.