By Chidinma Ajemba
For many years, Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) officers, popularly known as Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs), have often been misunderstood by members of the public. While some motorists perceive them as officers whose primary role is to enforce traffic laws and impose penalties, the core mandate of the department is to protect lives by ensuring that vehicles on the road meet established safety standards.
The Vehicle Inspection Service Department of the Anambra State Ministry of Transport plays a critical role in promoting road safety through routine vehicle inspections and public education. Its officers examine key vehicle components, including brakes, tyres, steering systems, lights and suspension, to ensure they are in good working condition. Identifying mechanical defects before they lead to road crashes remains one of the department’s foremost responsibilities.
Beyond assessing the mechanical condition of vehicles, VIS officers verify the validity of essential vehicle documents and drivers’ licences during routine inspections. Motorists are required to keep documents such as the Roadworthiness Certificate, Vehicle Licence, Hackney Carriage Permit for commercial vehicles, Proof of Ownership, Heavy Duty Permit where applicable, Third-Party Insurance Certificate and a valid Driver’s Licence up to date.
According to the department, these documents are not mere formalities but legal requirements designed to ensure that vehicles operating on public roads are properly registered, insured and fit for use.
The department also promotes road safety through driver education and public enlightenment programmes. VIS officers regularly sensitise motorists on routine vehicle maintenance, defensive driving, compliance with traffic regulations and responsible road use. In addition, the department investigates road traffic crashes to determine their causes and recommend preventive measures, while its Driving Licence Unit ensures that only qualified and competent drivers are licensed to operate vehicles on public roads.
The Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer, Engr. MacDonald Achuam, urged motorists to regard VIS officers as partners in road safety rather than adversaries.
According to him, every inspection conducted by the department is aimed at preventing accidents, protecting lives, ensuring that road users reach their destinations safely, stressing that effective collaboration between motorists and VIS officers is essential to achieving safer roads across Anambra State.
He noted that every defective vehicle removed from the road represents a potential accident prevented, while every expired document renewed strengthens compliance with road safety regulations, adding that educating motorists on safe driving practices remains one of the most effective ways of reducing road crashes.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to discharging its responsibilities with professionalism, fairness and integrity while intensifying public awareness on vehicle roadworthiness, valid documentation and responsible driving.
As the Ministry of Transport continues to strengthen public engagement, it expressed optimism that more residents will appreciate the vital role of VIS officers in protecting lives and property, recognising them not as adversaries but as dedicated public servants working to make Anambra roads safer for everyone.
Chidinma Ajemba is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
