Rivers gives commercial drivers ultimatum to paint vehicles

The Rivers State Ministry of Transport has given commercial transport operators in the state until October 31, 2026, to paint their vehicles in the approved state colours.

The government said the measure was aimed at promoting public safety and making legitimate commercial vehicles easier for commuters across the state to identify.

The directive was contained in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Transport, Dr (Mrs) Vera Sam-Dike, and obtained by our reporter on Saturday.

While noting that the directive affected taxi, bus and tricycle (popularly called Keke) operators, the ministry, however, said monitoring and enforcement would begin immediately after the expiration of the deadline, precisely on November 1, 2026.

It further warned that any commercial vehicle found operating without the approved colour scheme after the deadline would be impounded, while the operator would be barred from service until the vehicle was brought into compliance and applicable fines paid.

The statement read, “The Rivers State Ministry of Transport is issuing a final reminder to all commercial transport operators, including taxi, bus, and tricycle (keke) owners, that the deadline to paint their vehicles in the official approved state colours is 31st October, 2026.

“This directive is a vital safety measure designed to improve public security and make legitimate commercial transport vehicles easily identifiable for commuters.

“Note that all unpainted or improperly painted commercial transportation vehicles must complete the transition to official state colours by October 31st. Full monitoring and strict enforcement will commence on November 1st, 2026.

“Any commercial vehicle found operating without the approved state colour scheme after the deadline will be impounded, and the operator barred from service until full compliance and payment of applicable fines.”

It directed operators to contact the Head of the Land Transportation Department at the Ministry of Transport, Engr. Andrew Alapuberesisika, through dedicated lines for more information, especially on painting workshops offering subsidised rates.

“The Rivers State Government appreciates the cooperation of transport union leaders and vehicle owners whose vehicles are already aligned with this directive,” the statement added.