The National Chairman of the Motor Riders Union, Mohammed Tijani, has called on foreign nationals engaged in the Okada business to register with recognised unions to ensure proper identification and data collection.

According to him, Ghana’s transport regulations require operators to belong to an accredited union before being permitted to operate.

He stressed that union membership is critical in helping authorities track criminal activities and maintain reliable data on riders.

Mr. Tijani noted that a significant number of foreign nationals from neighbouring countries, including Benin, Togo, Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria, are currently engaged in the Okada business across the country.

He made these remarks during an engagement with Okada riders in Ashaiman, where leaders were selected to represent foreign nationals operating in the area.

He emphasised that joining a union has become even more important as the government finalises processes towards the legalisation of the Okada business.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of the Central Refuse Collectors Association, Abdul Aziz Suleman, has appealed to the government to expedite efforts to legalise Okada operations.

He also urged riders to prioritise personal hygiene and strictly observe road safety protocols.

Representing the Chief of Ashaiman at the meeting, George Kwasi Owusu advised the foreign nationals to respect and comply with Ghana’s laws to ensure a peaceful and lawful stay in the country.