The National Union of Dispatch Riders and Mail Operators of Nigeria (NUDRMON), on friday paid a courtesy visit to the General Manager (GM) of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) at its Oshodi office. The discussions centered on cultivating a collaborative strategy to enhance road safety and promote discipline among dispatch riders operating in Lagos State.

The Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, Mr Adebayo Taofiq, in a statement said the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed grave concerns about the traffic infractions commonly associated with some dispatch riders. He issued a stern warning against the illegal use of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridors, obstructive parking, and contraventions such as riding against traffic (“one-way”). He underscored the critical importance of proper training for NUDRMON members and urged the Union to prioritize the sensitization of their members on traffic regulations and adherence to road safety standards.

Mr. Bakare-Oki further recommended that NUDRMON leverage training opportunities available through LASTMA and the Lagos State Drivers’ Institute. He highlighted the institute’s vital role in equipping riders with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct themselves professionally and safely on Lagos roads.

The GM also set out key operational benchmarks for dispatch riders. These include the mandatory use of motorcycles with a minimum engine capacity of 200cc and the prohibition of overloading bikes with heavy or oversized goods, which could compromise safety. Additionally, he cautioned against reckless behaviors such as “hit-and-run” incidents, excessive speeding, and vehicle scratching during navigation through traffic.

In response, the Lagos State Chairman of NUDRMON, Mr. Oshoko Babatunde, acknowledged the concerns raised and outlined the Union’s proactive measures to address these issues. He announced the forthcoming introduction of a “Body Number” identification system for dispatch riders, designed to promote accountability. This initiative ensures that each rider is assigned a unique identification number, facilitating effective data collation and simplifying the tracking process in cases of missing consignments or traffic violations.

Mr. Babatunde also assured the public that the Union is taking decisive action to address the increasing complaints about dispatch and mail riders. He affirmed the Union’s commitment to enhancing service delivery and maintaining high standards of professionalism among its members.

The meeting highlighted the shared dedication of LASTMA and NUDRMON to fostering safer roads, reducing traffic infractions, and improving operational standards within the dispatch and mail delivery sector in Lagos State.