Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, yesterday approved hazard allowance for personnel of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) just as he inaugurated the state Head of Service, Olubunmi Oni, two permanent secretaries and 47 others as Marshals into office.
The two permanent secretaries were Dr. G.O. Oyedele of the General Administration and Alhaji Akeem Salami of Cabinet and Special Services.
Makinde approved the hazard allowance, which he said will take effect on 1 August 2024, at the passing-out parade of 500 newly recruited OYRTMA officers and the inauguration of its Marshals at the NYSC Orientation camp in Iseyin.
The gesture was in response to an earlier request by the executive chairman of the OYRTMA, Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd.), for the implementation of a hazard allowance for its staff to further boost their morale and commitment to road safety and their well-being.
According to the governor, the approval recognizes the agency’s achievements in road management across the state.
He stated that the approval would boost morale and encourage more effectiveness and efficiency in performing their duties.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of the state workforce, assuring that his administration would continue to prioritise the well-being of its workers.
“I heard your request for hazard allowance, and it’s approved with effect from 1 August 2024”, Makinde said.
Earlier, the chairman of the OYRTMA, Adekoya (rtd), expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for his continued support of the OYRTMA staff.
He stated that the recruitment process was rigorous and thorough, designed to ensure that only the most qualified and capable individuals joined our ranks.
‘’They have undergone intensive training and are now ready to enforce traffic rules and regulations, ensuring the safety and efficiency of our roads”, he said.
While requesting a hazard allowance for the personnel, Adesagba noted that officers face several hazards, including traffic accidents that can result in injuries, permanent disabilities, or even death.
Makinde, after the inauguration, inspected the ongoing construction works at the Faculty of Agriculture and Renewable Natural Resources of the Ladoke Akintola University located in Iseyin.