…State Government Sets October 31 Deadline, Warns of Enforcement Against Defaulters
By Our Correspondent
The Rivers State Government has issued a fresh directive to commercial vehicle operators across the state, giving them until October 31, 2026, to repaint their vehicles in the approved state colours or face enforcement measures.
The directive affects operators of commercial taxis, buses and tricycles, popularly known as keke, as the government intensifies efforts to improve the identification and regulation of vehicles operating within the state.
According to the directive, enforcement is expected to begin from November 1, 2026, meaning commercial vehicle owners who fail to comply with the order before the deadline could face sanctions from the relevant authorities.
The government said the vehicle-colour policy is aimed at making commercial vehicles easier to identify and distinguish from private vehicles. Authorities also believe that proper identification could assist security agencies in tackling criminal activities involving vehicles disguised as taxis or other forms of public transportation.
One of the major concerns highlighted by the authorities is the use of vehicles for criminal activities, including so-called “one-chance” robberies. By ensuring that genuine commercial vehicles have a distinct appearance, the government believes passengers and security personnel will be better positioned to identify vehicles authorised to operate commercially.
The policy is also expected to strengthen the regulation of the state’s transport sector and make it easier for relevant agencies to monitor commercial vehicles operating on Rivers roads.
However, the directive has generated mixed reactions among commercial drivers. Some operators have expressed concern about the financial burden of repainting their vehicles, particularly at a time when the cost of vehicle maintenance, fuel and other operational expenses remains high.
Some drivers have also appealed to the government to consider extending the deadline or introducing measures that would make compliance less expensive for transport operators.
For many commercial drivers, repainting a vehicle is more than simply changing its colour. It represents an additional financial commitment for operators who are already struggling with rising maintenance costs and other expenses associated with running a commercial transport business.
There are also concerns among some operators about how enforcement will be carried out. Drivers and transport stakeholders are expected to watch closely to ensure that the implementation of the directive does not result in unnecessary harassment, intimidation or illegal levies.
Despite the concerns, the government maintains that the policy is necessary to bring greater order to the commercial transport system and improve public safety.
The vehicle-colour requirement is not entirely new in Rivers State. Similar directives have been issued and enforced by previous administrations, making the latest announcement a renewed effort to ensure that commercial transport operators comply with the state’s approved vehicle-identification system.
With the deadline fast approaching, commercial vehicle owners have been advised to take the directive seriously and complete the repainting of their vehicles before the commencement of enforcement.
As the October 31 deadline approaches, attention will now turn to how effectively the government and transport authorities will implement the policy, as well as whether further consultations will take place with drivers and transport unions.
For commuters, the government hopes the measure will ultimately translate into a safer and more organised transportation system across Rivers State.
The message from the authorities is clear: commercial vehicle operators have until October 31 to comply, while enforcement is expected to begin on November 1, 2026.
