By Ebuka Onyekwelu, Ph.D
Commercial transport unions in Anambra State have ended years of division following the formation of a unified body, the Anambra State Bus Drivers Welfare Association, in a move aimed at promoting drivers’ welfare, strengthening government oversight and improving transport services.
The development was formalised during the inaugural meeting of the harmonised association, convened by the Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Edward Ibuzo, where representatives of the various factions signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a united platform for commercial bus drivers across the state.
Speaking at the event, Ibuzo said the initiative reflected the state government’s determination to unite commercial bus drivers, improve their welfare and strengthen collaboration between transport operators and the government.
“The inauguration represents our determination to bring commercial bus drivers together under a coordinated platform that promotes their welfare while strengthening government supervision, accountability and service delivery,” he said.
The commissioner lamented the challenges posed by the previous arrangement, which was characterised by multiple associations, competing interests and leadership disputes that made effective coordination difficult.
He said the new association would end the era of fragmentation and promote unity, accountability and orderly operations in the transport sector.
“Our objective is therefore unity, not division; service, not exploitation; and organization, not disorder,” Ibuzo declared.
Ibuzo charged the association’s inaugural chairman, Mr. Moses Ohanebo, to provide fair, transparent and inclusive leadership, assuring the union of the state government’s support.
He added that the initiative aligned with Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s agenda to organise and mainstream informal-sector operators in Anambra State.
In their response, members of the association commended Ibuzo and Governor Soludo for their commitment to the welfare of commercial transport operators.
They also pledged their continued support for the state government, expressing optimism that the unified association would promote better coordination and improve the welfare of bus drivers across Anambra State.
Tags: Anambra State, Soludo, Transport Unions
