Rivers Gov’t orders commercial vehicles to paint State colours or risk arrest

By Barth Ndubuwah

The Rivers State Ministry of Transport has issued a final reminder to all commercial transport operators, including taxi, bus, and tricycle owners, that the deadline to paint their vehicles in the official approved state colours is October 31, 2026.

This directive was contained in a press statement issued in Port Harcourt by the State Ministry of Transport and signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry.

According to the statement, the safety measure was designed to improve public security and make legitimate commercial transport vehicles easily identifiable for commuters.

The statement warned that all unpainted or improperly painted commercial transportation vehicles must complete the transition to official state colours by October 31, noting that full monitoring and strict enforcement will commence on November 1, 2026.

“Any commercial vehicle found operating without the approved state colour scheme after the deadline will be impounded, and the operator barred from service until full compliance and payment of applicable fines,” the statement said.

Operators can contact the Head of the Land Transportation Department at the Ministry of Transport, Engr. Andrew Alapuberesisika, through 08036705909 for more information, especially on painting workshops with subsidized rates.

The Rivers State government appreciated the cooperation of transport union leaders and vehicle owners who have already aligned with this directive.