The Kwara State government has raised concerns over the proliferation of unregulated advertisements on mini buses (Korope) and tricycles (Keke Marwa) in the state.

Speaking at a meeting with different leadership groups of the transport associations on Monday, the Acting General Manager of The Kwara State Signage and Advertisement Agency (KWASAA), Mr. Toba Adeyeye, said that the unchecked trend had opened doors for scammers and individuals selling unapproved drugs and beverages to circulate misleading and potentially dangerous messages to the public.

The KWASAA boss stressed that the safety and well-being of Kwarans remain paramount to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, adding that the agency would not tolerate any advertisement capable of posing risks to members of the public.

The general manager announced a new mandatory procedure: Any individual, business or organisation seeking to advertise on mini buses or tricycles must formally write to KWASAA, attach the proposed advertisement design, and secure official approval before such materials can be displayed by transport operators.

Responding on behalf of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the State Secretary, Alhaji Yemi Aliu, pledged to communicate the resolutions of the meeting to union members. He assured the agency that the union would ensure all individuals intending to place adverts on vehicles are referred to KWASAA for authorisation.

Similarly, the Public Relations Officer of the Transport Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN), Alhaji Abdulganiyu Isiaka Agba, called for broader public sensitisation to further enlighten citizens about the new and laudable directives introduced by KWASAA.

Also speaking, Mr Babatunde Abdulganiyu, the Administrative Secretary of Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), assured the agency of the association's readiness to collaborate fully with the state government to safeguard the lives and property of Kwarans.

The meeting came up with a renewed commitment by all parties to work collectively in ensuring that outdoor and transit advertising in Kwara state is safe, responsible, regulated and aligned with global best practices.