Over the weekend, the Lagos State Government introduced the Digital Registration of Commercial Motorcycles (Okada) and Tricycles (Keke) as part of its efforts to encompass more than 80,000 unregistered operators. This initiative aims to bolster security measures, enhance regulation, and increase efficiency for both operators and the community.

The drive behind this initiative is led by the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation and SiiTech Technologies, a proponent of technological progress in the transportation sector. They are working in collaboration with Lagos State Parks and Garages (LASPG).

In 2020, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu implemented a ban on the usage of Okada and Keke in specific Local Government and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) within the state.

During the inauguration of the Digital Registration system for commercial motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Keke) in Lagos State, Engr Abdulhafiz Toriola, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, emphasized the vital role transportation plays in ensuring the efficient functioning of any economy.

Toriola, represented by the Ministry's Director of Operations, Engr. Olasunkanmi Ojowuro, stated, "It is essential to regulate the areas where okada and keke have been authorized as modes of transportation. Our findings indicate that there are approximately 80,000 unregistered okada operators in the state, which is a matter of great concern. This situation poses significant security and safety risks, as well as financial losses for the state."

"Our approach involves partnering with SiiTech to implement a digital registration system for all motorcycles and keke used for commuting purposes in areas where there is no ban. The data collected through this process will be forwarded to the department within the ministry responsible for public transport services. This will enable us to easily identify and track those operating without a license, allowing us to leverage technology to remove them from the road."