The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to regulate the operations of Okada and Pragyia riders, citing concerns over road safety.
As part of the new measures, riders will be required to undergo training on road safety, wear uniforms and helmets, and display specialized license plates on their motorcycles.
Acting Director General Abraham Amaliba warned that riders who fail to comply with the new regulations will face arrest and prosecution by the police.
“The legalisation will come with some restrictions. It is not going to be free for all like what you are doing now. We are going to train you on road safety because some of you just get the motorbike and you are riding so we will train you on road safety.”
Amaliba emphasized that riders must adhere to the new rules, stating, “We will prescribe a uniform for you and we will prescribe a particular helmet for you. Then DVLA will give you a special number plate and they will also train you on how to ride. The police would begin to arrest some of you if you fail to obey the road traffic regulations.”
The NRSA is working closely with the Tricycle Operators Association to form unions for registration, as part of efforts to reduce accidents in the region.
The new regulations are expected to come into effect soon, marking a significant shift in the government’s approach to regulating the Okada industry.