The Oyo State Government has launched the OYRTMA Youth Volunteers Programme as part of efforts to promote road safety, behavioral change and active youth participation in governance.
Speaking at the launch on behalf of Governor Seyi Makinde, the Permanent Secretary, General Administration in the Governor’s Office, Dr. Bode Ladipo, described the initiative as the beginning of a new culture of patience, consideration and responsible conduct on roads across the state.
According to him, the state has witnessed numerous road accidents, loss of lives and traffic challenges caused largely by poor attitudes among motorists and other road users.
“Today marks another beginning, a beginning of a culture that makes me proud as an Oyo State indigene. It is time to rewrite the culture on our roads,” he said.
Dr. Ladipo noted that the increasing number of vehicles on Nigerian roads, coupled with impatience among drivers, has contributed to longer travel times and frustration for commuters.
He cited an example of a journey from Ibadan to Abuja that now takes between six and ten hours due to traffic congestion and reckless driving habits.
He expressed optimism that the volunteer programme would lay the foundation for a lasting transformation in road usage and traffic management, not only in Oyo State but across the country.
“We are building a culture of patience and consideration that we hope will stand the test of time. Years from now, our roads should become a testimony to what we have started here today,” he stated.
The Permanent Secretary also urged residents to reflect on the kind of society they want for future generations, stressing the need for peace, mutual respect and discipline on the roads.
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority, Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd), said the programme was created to encourage youth involvement in governance and road safety advocacy.
He disclosed that the first batch of volunteers inaugurated under the initiative consists of 100 youths, describing them as pioneer ambassadors of responsible road use in the state.
According to him, the volunteers will focus on advocacy, behavioral and attitudinal change rather than enforcement.
“The essence of this programme is to bring our youths into governance and make them active participants.
These youths will serve as ambassadors, advocating good behavior, diligence and patience on our roads to ensure safety for everyone,” Adekoya said.
In her remarks, The Chairman of the Oyo State Rule of Law Agency, Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd), has charged members of the newly launched OYRTMA Youth Volunteers Programme to remain disciplined, punctual and committed to integrity in the discharge of their duties.
She said the initiative would positively engage young people and channel their energy towards productive activities that would benefit society.
According to her, the programme would assist the government in addressing traffic congestion while also promoting responsible behavior among road users across the state.
“You know the way the youths are; they have a lot of energy, and what is happening today will keep them busy and enable them to assist the government in controlling traffic congestion and doing the right thing in society,” she said.
Justice Aderemi noted that many youths who were previously unemployed or idle now have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society through the volunteer initiative.
She expressed confidence that the programme would help reduce the challenges experienced on roads while improving public order and safety.
The chairman, however, warned the volunteers against corruption and misconduct, urging them never to accept bribes while carrying out their responsibilities.
“My motherly advice is that they should never take bribes because bribery will blind their minds and prevent them from performing their duties effectively,” she stated.
She further advised the volunteers to avoid laziness, remain dedicated to duty and ensure punctuality in all assignments entrusted to them.
The OYRTMA Youth Volunteers Programme is expected to strengthen public enlightenment campaigns and improve compliance with traffic regulations across Oyo State.
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