Fides Media Living the Faith
By Sunny A. Ijomah
Anambra State Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Christian Madubuko has asked officers of the Anambra Traffic Control Agency(ATMA) and other stakeholders in the sector to intensify operations aimed at ensuring safety on the roads.
According to him, there is need for all traffic control agencies in the state to work together this festive period to facilitate free vehicular flow and control.
In a speech during the 2019 Drivers Seminar and Launch of ATMA Marshal Vests, held at the agency’s office, at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka, the Commissioner called on officers to be vigilant and more responsive to their roles as traffic managers.
Dr. Madubuko added that volunteers were needed to enlist into newly inaugurated ATMA Special Marshals to complement effort of regular officers for effective traffic control, especially at gridlock-prone points.
He praised the dedication to duty by one of officers of the agency posted to Aroma Junction, Awka, Mr. Obinna Ejeagwu, who was honoured in company of other officers during the event.
Dr. Madubuko noted that as helmsman in the ministry, he often moved around to monitor the performance of officers at their various duty posts to assess their level of commitment.
Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of ATMA, Mr. Pat Obiefuna, described the theme of the seminar: “Drive Right And Save Time”, as apt, especially at this period of the year.
He emphasised the readiness of the agency to partner with relevant stakeholders in the transport sector to curb the challenge of road crashes often caused by drivers.
The ATMA Boss commended Governor Obiano for installing traffic control lights to assist in easing off traffic jams, stressing that road crashes could be avoided by drivers, who obey signs.
Assistant Corps Commander, Mr. Ike Egwuokike, who represented the State Sector Commander of the Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr. Andrew Kumakpayi, called on intending motorists to undergo training at approved Driving Schools before plying the road.
He enjoined them to present their vehicles for routine checks and abide by traffic rules and regulations to ensure safety on “the Wheels”.
In a goodwill address, the State Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO), Mr. Emenike Atuegbunam, assured of readiness of his officers to contribute their quota toward guaranteeing accident-free Yuletide.
He added that to achieve the objective of the event, motorists must update their vehicle documents, fix their vehicles to be roadworthy and obey all traffic rules.