By Douglas Princemola
The Imo Transport Company, ITC, has witnessed a major transformation under the leadership of its Managing Director, Mr Uche Obiozor, who has introduced a new system of digital operation, transparency, and accountability in the state-owned transport company.
Before Mr Obiozor took over, the company was almost at the point of collapse. Many of its vehicles were old, poorly maintained, and no longer fit for road use. The company’s management system was weak, and passengers often complained of delays, breakdowns, and poor service. Operations were done manually, and the revenue system lacked openness, leading to wastage and low returns to the Imo State Government.
It is important to note that the Imo Transport Company has a unique place in Nigeria’s transport history. ITC is the first state to establish a government-owned transport company in the country. This made Imo State a pioneer in organized state transportation, and over the years, the company served as a symbol of pride for the people. However, due to years of poor management and neglect, ITC lost its original glory before Mr Obiozor was appointed as Managing Director.
After assuming office, Mr Obiozor began a complete reform of the company to restore its former reputation. His first move was to introduce a digital system for handling daily activities. Through this method, ITC can now monitor its vehicles, ticketing, and staff activities more accurately. The new digital process has reduced fraud, blocked revenue leakages, and made it easier to account for every income generated by the company.
Mr Obiozor also modernized the ITC fleet by replacing old and unreliable buses with new and comfortable vehicles. The new buses have improved safety, reduced the number of breakdowns on the highways, and made travel easier for passengers. He also introduced a franchise system that allows private individuals to operate their vehicles under the ITC brand. This program has increased the number of available buses, created jobs, and made it easier for commuters to find transport at all times.
Before the current administration, the Imo State Government received only 30 percent of the company’s total revenue. With the new transparent system in place, the state government now gets 100 percent of ITC’s income. This change has helped the company grow and has increased the government’s financial returns from transportation.
To make ITC services easier for passengers to access, Mr Obiozor also opened smaller transport units in areas where the company has major parks. These smaller units, or mini-terminals, help passengers get buses closer to their locations without traveling far distances. This idea has made the company’s service faster and more convenient for people moving within and outside the state.
When the reform process began, some park leaders were not comfortable with the changes, especially the digitalization program, which altered old methods of operation. Despite the opposition, Mr Obiozor remained focused on his plan to rebuild ITC. As time went on, most stakeholders began to see the progress and benefits of the new system and gave their full support to the management.
As part of the reform, the company set up a disciplinary committee to check corruption, laziness, and other illegal activities among staff. The committee discovered cases of ghost workers and employees who were receiving salaries without doing any work. Those found guilty were dismissed after proper investigation. The management explained that no company can succeed without discipline and honesty.
In addition to restoring discipline, Mr Obiozor also improved the welfare of staff. Salaries and allowances were reviewed to encourage workers to be more dedicated. The company also improved working conditions to make staff more comfortable and motivated. Many employees have expressed their happiness with the new management, describing the change as a new beginning for ITC.
Since the introduction of these reforms, ITC’s daily activities have become better organized. Every vehicle is now properly inspected before being allowed to carry passengers, ensuring safety and reliability. The company’s parks and loading points have also been reorganized for better orderliness and customer satisfaction.
Today, the Imo Transport Company has regained its position as one of the most trusted public transport services in Nigeria. Passengers now travel with comfort and confidence, knowing that ITC vehicles are safe, clean, and reliable. The revival of the company has also helped restore public confidence in government-run businesses, proving that with good management and accountability, public institutions can perform effectively.
Under the leadership of Mr Uche Obiozor, ITC has not only been digitalized but has also been rebuilt into a more efficient and modern transport company. What was once a struggling agency has now become a strong and well-organized transport system that serves the people of Imo State with pride.
Many people, including transport experts and the general public, have praised Mr Obiozor for his efforts in reviving ITC and setting a new standard for state-owned transport companies in Nigeria. The success story of ITC today shows that progress is possible when there is vision, discipline, and commitment to service.
Through hard work, determination, and innovation, Mr Uche Obiozor has written a new chapter in the history of Imo State’s transportation system. ITC now stands once again as the pride of Imo people and a model for other states in Nigeria to follow.
