Uzodimma Reintroduces Tricycles in Imo: Commendations Trail Transport Commissioner Okoronkwo, NURTW Boss, Ikenga Eze

By Dan Opara

In a strategic move to boost the transport sector and enhance rural-urban mobility in Imo State, Governor Hope Uzodimma has approved the return of the earlier disbanded tricycles (Keke Napep) to designated areas across the state.

This development was officially disclosed during the July 31, 2025, end-of-month State Executive Council (SEC) meeting of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), held in Owerri.

The meeting was chaired by the State NURTW Chairman, Ambassador Ikenga Jeff Eze (La Jeff).

Speaking at the event, La Jeff announced that the State Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Emeka Okoronkwo, has granted immediate permission for tricycle operations to resume in parts of the state in some locations, where restrictions had previously been imposed by the state government.

The Imo NURTW State Boss, Amb.Eze emphasized that this move aligns with Governor Uzodimma’s directive to ease transportation challenges and empower local operators.

“This directive came straight from Governor Hope Uzodimma, and we are simply implementing his vision to revitalize the transport system and support tricycle operators who depend on it for their livelihood,” La Jeff stated.

In response, the Chairman of the Tricycle Association of Nigeria, Imo State Chapter, Mr. Michael Onyedikachi Ekwe, expressed profound gratitude to the Governor.

He lauded the government’s decision, pledging the commitment of all tricycle operators to uphold traffic rules and contribute positively to the transport system.

“We are indeed happy to be back on the roads. We thank Governor Uzodimma for this opportunity and assure the public of our dedication to safe and orderly conduct,” Ekwe said.

The meeting ended on a celebratory note with group photographs and an exchange of pleasantries.

The NURTW leadership charged its members to fully reintegrate the tricycle operators and work collectively for a seamless transportation framework in the state.