The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) has trained its officers in intelligence gathering, vigilance, and public safety to strengthen security efforts across the state.
The one-day capacity-building programme was held at the Oyo State House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
The training was designed to equip traffic officers with skills that would enable them to identify and report suspicious activities encountered during their daily duties.
The initiative was unveiled under the theme, “Eyes on the Road – Intelligence in Action.”
According to OYRTMA Chairman, Major Adekoya Adesagba (retd.), traffic officers occupy strategic positions that place them in constant contact with motorists and commuters across the state.
He explained that the responsibilities of traffic personnel extend beyond traffic control and road decongestion.
Adesagba noted that officers can serve as valuable intelligence assets by observing unusual movements and promptly reporting security concerns to relevant authorities.
During the training, participants received guidance on observation techniques, surveillance awareness, and effective reporting procedures.
The programme also emphasized the importance of intelligence gathering in preventing criminal activities before they occur.
Adesagba cited recent security challenges in parts of Oyo State, including incidents of kidnapping and banditry, as reasons for strengthening intelligence-led approaches.
He urged officers to remain alert while carrying out their daily responsibilities on highways and within urban centres.
Participants were advised to pay close attention to suspicious behaviour, unusual passenger interactions, and vehicles operating without registration plates.
The training also encouraged officers to report suspicious observations through proper security channels rather than directly confronting suspects.
Officials stressed that collaboration between traffic management agencies and security organisations remains essential in combating crime.
OYRTMA disclosed that it already maintains close cooperation with the Nigeria Police Force, Operation Burst, and the Oyo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun.
The agency believes that stronger information sharing among institutions can significantly improve public safety outcomes.
Officers were additionally encouraged to promote public awareness and educate road users on security consciousness.
The programme formed part of broader efforts by the Oyo State Government to adopt intelligence-driven strategies in addressing security concerns.
Authorities have increasingly encouraged frontline agencies to participate actively in identifying and reporting potential threats.
The state government views such collaborations as critical to improving safety on roads and within communities.
Stakeholders believe the initiative could enhance the ability of traffic officers to contribute meaningfully to crime prevention while maintaining their primary traffic management responsibilities.
As security challenges continue to evolve, OYRTMA says intelligence, vigilance, and inter-agency cooperation will remain key pillars of its operations moving forward.