Digital Ticketing System Enhances Safety and Transparency in Oyo State’s COVID-Era Transport Operations

By Korede Omololu-David

Several months after the launch of Oyo State’s electronic ticketing system, the initiative continues to demonstrate measurable improvements in accountability, transparency, and public health safety across the state’s transportation network. Introduced by the Ministry of Works and Transportation in partnership with the Board of Internal Revenue, the platform emerged as a timely solution during the COVID-19 pandemic, when minimising physical contact became a priority for both government agencies and transport operators.

Before the introduction of the system, the process of collecting daily dues from commercial drivers relied heavily on in-person interactions. Enforcement officials routinely handled cash, distributed paper tickets, and carried out manual verifications. During the height of the pandemic, these practices raised concerns about physical proximity, surface contact, and the general safety of drivers and revenue agents, who were required to interact with numerous individuals each day. Many operators also reported inconsistencies in the manual process, which caused confusion and lacked transparency.

The electronic ticketing system was designed to address these challenges by providing a streamlined, contact-minimised method of revenue collection. Under the new framework, each driver information is uploaded on the app and their vehicle registration plate number serves as the unique identifier within the app. Revenue collection agents are trained to generate electronic tickets on the spot, with payment categories automatically determined by the type of vehicle and whether it operates intra-city or inter-city routes. The introduction of QR codes has further streamlined the verification process, ensuring that payments can be confirmed quickly and reliably. Importantly, funds move directly into government accounts, significantly reducing leakages and improving oversight.

Behind the development and deployment of the platform was a coordinated effort involving several organisations. The primary contract was awarded to Crescent Deen Resources, which managed the project’s delivery, while BridgeGap Resources provided operational and technical coordination. The software itself was designed and developed by lead software developer, Olusegun Salako, who was subcontracted through BridgeGap Resources to transform the Ministry’s requirements into a functional, easy-to-use digital system that could be deployed rapidly during a period of heightened public health sensitivity.

Training sessions for revenue agents were conducted with consideration for distancing protocols in Ibadan, and the system’s intuitive design reduced the need for extended in-person interaction during onboarding. Since the rollout, feedback from park operators and collection agents has indicated smoother daily operations, a reduction in disputes over fee amounts, and far less reliance on physical ticketing materials.

As Oyo State continues to adapt its public services in response to evolving health and operational needs, the electronic ticketing system stands out as an example of how technology can support both safety and efficiency. By reducing physical contact, improving revenue assurance, and offering clearer visibility into daily collections, the platform has proven to be a valuable asset during and beyond the pandemic period. The project further illustrates how collaborative efforts between government agencies and technical partners can deliver solutions that protect public welfare while strengthening governance processes