Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe has conducted an assessment of a newly designated Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) facility intended for licensing motorcycle transport operators, commonly known as ‘okada’.
The site, which is poised to run 24-hour operations, will commence services upon the completion of key infrastructure developments.
Accompanied by Acting DVLA Chief Executive Julius Neequaye Kotei, Mr Nikpe toured the facility alongside other strategic locations in Accra.
The minister’s visit sought to evaluate the DVLA’s preparedness for round-the-clock licensing services and to gauge progress in the formalisation of Ghana’s motorcycle transport sector.
Following discussions with DVLA personnel, Nikpe reviewed the allocated land for the project and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expediting its launch.
“This site will serve as a centre for training, assessment, and licensing of motorcycle operators across Greater Accra. The introduction of 24-hour services underscores our commitment to fostering a round-the-clock economy,” he stated.
The initiative aims to bolster road safety standards and enhance efficiency within the transport sector.
Mr Nikpe also underscored the necessity of reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and eliminating unauthorised intermediaries—referred to locally as ‘goro boys’—who undermine the credibility of the DVLA.
Mr Kotei assured that the facility’s continuous operation would accelerate licensing procedures and accommodate a higher volume of applicants.
Mr Nikpe further urged DVLA staff to address operational bottlenecks, stressing the importance of timely and transparent service delivery to facilitate economic activity and regulatory compliance.
