BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
THE Director-General of the Delta State Traffic Management Authority (DESTMA), Hon. Benjamin Okiemute said, yesterday, that his first year in office has delivered sweeping reforms that have repositioned the agency for greater efficiency, visibility, and improved service delivery.
Speaking at a media briefing to mark his one year in office, Hon. Okiemute recounted the dismal state of DESTMA before his appointment, an agency without a substantive DG, dilapidated infrastructure, low staff morale, and only two functional patrol vehicles servicing all operational commands.
Upon assuming office, he said he immediately launched an ambitious reform agenda that focused on restructuring the agency, reorganising staff, and restoring operational capacity through the repair of patrol vehicles and tow trucks.
Hon. Okiemute disclosed that under his leadership, DESTMA has established new operational units, including the Provost Unit, Intelligence Unit, and the DESTMA Marshal, to strengthen internal discipline and bolster field operations.
He revealed that 4,328 vehicles were impounded during enforcement activities across Delta, while the agency’s revenue surged to over ₦110 million, representing a remarkable 273 percent increase within one year.
According to him, improved traffic flow across major routes, enhanced road safety, and stronger collaboration with security agencies are among the transformative outcomes of his administration. He also ordered a full staff audit to eliminate ghost workers and streamline productivity.
Additional achievements highlighted by the DG include the refurbishment of more patrol vehicles, deployment of a rapid-response Sienna for the Provost Unit, establishment of a whistleblower line, recognition of outstanding officers, and infrastructural upgrades such as renovated zonal offices, improved impound facilities, and a modern conference hall.
He added that routine pep talks are now held to uplift staff morale, while ongoing efforts include amending the DESTMA law, transitioning the agency into a paramilitary structure, and expanding its operational budget to support long-term institutional growth.
